#makes me so nostalgic for my own scene queen era

[anyahita]

2009

[hilarieburtonmorgan]

Ten Years Later, the One Tree Hill Cast Is Setting the Record Straight

Ten years after the finale of One Tree Hill, the actors Hilarie Burton Morgan, Sophia Bush, and Bethany Joy Lenz have never been closer. Despite their shared experience growing up on screen, the trio— who played Peyton Sawyer, Brooke Davis, and Haley James in the heartland-set high school soap for nine seasons—were kept largely isolated from one another during those years.

That distance began to dissipate with age, and when the #MeToo movement alerted the actors to some of their common experiences while working on One Tree Hill. In their new weekly iHeartRadio podcast Drama Queens, the three actors unpack the moments—nostalgic and traumatic alike—that unfolded behind the scenes of the wildly popular drama. To celebrate the podcast’s success, Burton Morgan, Bush, and Lenz joined us for a bit of reminiscing. —BRIAN ALESSANDRO

———

HILARIE BURTON MORGAN: Sophia, you were the person that called me about a podcast. What was the catalyst for you to be like, “It’s time”?

SOPHIA BUSH: When we first finished the show, I didn’t want to talk about it. I didn’t want to touch it. I didn’t want to be close to it. And then as time went on, and we all started being able to get together, and share stories, and talk some shit. We all finally told each other the stories we’d been afraid to share — I wish we’d been able to have the friendships we have now back then! — and hearing everyone’s stories really made me so furious. It lit that fire in me, and I thought “well, we just have to burn it down.” But, I also had to remember how much our fans love the show, and to realize that despite so much that was insidious we also had fun. We’ve shared stories about what was painful and hard, and I think especially because of what you were put through, I wanted to call you first and just say, like, “Does this idea feel triggering?” You said “No, this feels quite cool.”

BURTON MORGAN: What was your first reaction, Joy?

BETHANY JOY LENZ: I was definitely hesitant about more One Tree Hill anything. But the more we talked about it, I was like, “Wow, this is actually a chance for redemption.” Also, I don’t want to throw shade on the show that did give us amazing opportunities. I always try to temper my frustrations with a good bit of gratitude. But as for the bad stuff, I really do love the opportunity to redeem that. Some of it was us being young and stubborn twenty-year-olds, but a lot of it was the people around us who were using our youth and naïveté to keep us from arguing back. It was always, “Joy, you’re the odd man out. Sophia, you’re the odd man out. Hilarie, you’re the odd man out.” So we never reached out to each other. I’m incredibly grateful for the relationship I with you amazing women now.

BURTON MORGAN: I left the show first, and it was the divorce of my life, because I’d committed so much to being the good soldier. “I’ll do whatever press you want. I’ll go on whatever mall tour.” And so, the loss of that was traumatic. But the next relationship I got into professionally was with White Collar, and the best person I could have ever encountered was Tiffani Thiessen, who was an icon to me. She told me right out of the gate, “Don’t bad mouth the show that got you started. Defend your character, forget the bad guys, take what’s good.” That was such great advice. She was someone whose opinion meant something to me, because she’d been a teen idol of mine. Who were some women on TV that that you felt like we were trying to emulate while we were doing the show?

LENZ: I don’t think I ever really knew how to process it. I actually feel like I missed a lot of the excitement because I kept asking myself what it all meant.

BURTON MORGAN: I was the opposite! I like experience. But I made terrible choices.

BUSH: I’m with Joy. Now, I over intellectualize everything because back then, I was always soaking up all the experiences and I got my ass handed to me. So now I’m like, “What does it mean? What is it all?”

BURTON MORGAN: How many years out are we now? Like 17 years out from the first year?

LENZ: I don’t even know how to process that.

BURTON MORGAN: 18 years out? Jesus, we could have children in college at this point. Why do you think people still care?

LENZ: Comfort food. I mean, that’s it, like especially now that there’s so much content. I can only speak from my experience, but when I settle in to watch TV, I will spend 20 minutes scrolling before saying, “You know what, fuck it,” and turning on Frasier. And that’s what I watch because I know those characters, and I just want that familiarity. I honestly think the over-saturation has played a huge role in our fans’ need for One Tree Hill.

BUSH: And I would also say that there is something about how — as outlandish it got at times — there was also a lot that felt honest. People write to us about how they feel seen, how they feel represented, how they see their own struggles in our show. When I meet new people who are just discovering it and I think, “You could be watching anything! Why? Thank you?”

BURTON MORGAN: Honestly, having an older kid, and seeing the things that he’s drawn to, he loves watching TV shows from our era. Probably the same reason I loved watching Bewitched and I Dream of Jeannie and What’s Happening – it’s retro. They’re mystified by it because there’s no social media on our show and so people are actually talking to each other. You actually had to show up at Karen’s Cafe to have that important conversation. It’s a wish fulfillment for these younger kids where they’re like, “Oh, my life doesn’t look anything like that.” We are the time warp, which is super fucked up.

LENZ: And we were also the last show that was doing, dare I say, wholesome content? I mean I know our show, like, jumped the shark several times in many regards, but in terms of the“hometown kids, middle of America, just dealing with regular emotions and life stuff,” those shows became very rare. Everything that came after us was like rich kids—Gossip Girl and The OC, and then it was all brought to a high-concept place like the Vampire Diaries, Riverdale stuff. And I don’t know that there’s anything out there that’s kind of gotten back to the roots, like One Tree Hill.

BURTON MORGAN: Can you imagine pitching One Tree Hill now? Like, “it’s about some kids. Two of them play basketball, and the rest are just moody.”

BURTON MORGAN: What episodes are we all excited to review the most? Some of them are cringey as hell.

BUSH: I’m sure a lot of them will be.

BURTON MORGAN: I like the Halloween episode we did at Tric [the “all-ages” nightclub]. That was batshit. It was 1000 degrees in there and everyone was dying and miserable and we’re dressed up like cartoons.

LENZ: I know. The one with the car, where they made me fucking siphon off gas.

BURTON MORGAN: That was fun cause that was really the first time the three of us were put together.

BUSH: Having to pretend to be high on pills when I never had been, I was like, “I’ll try!” Hilarie, your wedding episode was…

BURTON MORGAN: Christ.

BUSH: That was such a shit show, man. You said the Halloween episode — you’ll cackle when you see we did a Halloween episode after you were gone. And I had to be dressed up as one half of A Clockwork Orange, but was abandoned in my costume, and I was written to be dressed as a giant orange and Carol (Cutshall, costumer) papier-mached a workout ball and drilled armholes in it, and I had to wear it. AND I directed that episode!

BURTON MORGAN: That’s perfect! That’s a chef’s kiss.

BUSH: I had little T-Rex arms, being like, “well, if you go over there” – And they’d say “Where?” And I’d be like, “I can’t show you! I’m stuck in an orange!” It was, it was so humiliating. But when I think back on it, great comedic fodder.

BURTON MORGAN: What is your favorite keepsake from the show?

LENZ: I have the Julius Caesar book that Haley gives to Lucas in the pilot.

BURTON MORGAN: I have the leather jacket that Peyton takes after Ellie [Sheryl Lee] dies. That was an intense crying scene for me. My body has a physical reaction to that jacket.

LENZ: What’s yours, Soph?

BUSH: I have, like, a bin.

BURTON MORGAN: You have everything!

BUSH: There’s like this sad episode where Brooke celebrates her birthday alone in her room with a cupcake. I have the photo album from that scene, which is very sweet because it’s all photos of you and I, Hilarie…

BURTON MORGAN: You have that?

BUSH: Oh yeah, I took that immediately. There are real pictures of us from growing up, because it was this story of these friends who grew up together…

BURTON MORGAN: Joy, we’re gonna photoshop you in.

BUSH: Honestly, we should just make a new one. Of all the stuff that feels sentimental, that “Brooke Davis for President” pin kills me. It’s up on the wall in my office, because it makes me laugh. When I think about why that’s the one thing I’ve displayed—next to a photo of the three of us— it’s because it symbolized something that at the time really embarrassed me, but now I respect. Brooke Davis took the thing she was made fun of for, and turned it into an anthem. She was this bad bitch who owned her shit. That’s something I’ve tried to emulate.

BURTON MORGAN: One thing that I keep thinking is, “we deserve this.”

LENZ: Because we do! It’s hard to say that as women, I think.

BURTON MORGAN: What makes you two feel like we deserve this?

LENZ: Because we’ve worked our asses off, and because it’s beautiful to experience friendship with each other in a way that we were robbed of in our younger days.

BURTON MORGAN: We were really good girls. I’m excited to set things straight.

[grlsgen]

my favorite 2020 kpop songs

there were some bangers this year... this includes title tracks & bsides and everything else under the sun.

i always got shit to say and i always see youtube videos like this but i simply can’t edit so here we are

you never know - blackpink

okay yeah i didn’t really fw hylt or lovesick girls when i first heard them but when i listened to the album you never know really stuck with me... i never get sick of it. definitely the best track off the album imo. rosé’s prechorus has made me cry a few times ngl

alien - lee suhyun

alright miss thing... i was obsessed with this song when i first heard it... the pre chorus with the ooo ooo ooo and the switch to the chorus is so good it gets me every time. she’s cute i like her... while we’re here i’ll also mention i really liked her ost in your time for it’s okay to not be okay.. i loved that drama and that’s my fav ost from it.. but anyway

lalalilala - april

They Served. Big time. the music video is so pretty and the song was stuck in my head for 6 months straight... they really did the damn thing with this. kinda sounds like an apink song but that’s a compliment... overall this whole comeback was really good and deserved better. honorable mention : the bside on this ep you.zip is so good too

open your eyes - iz*one

this is all i listened to for months after bloomiz dropped... izone’s music is really a hit or miss for me and i didn’t really vibe with fiesta but i’m so glad i gave the album a chance because open your eyes is definitely in my top 5 releases of this year. their other bside dreamlike is really good too

the book of us : the demon - day6 album

now where do i start with this... to this day i am still obsessed with 1 to 10... like that’s gotta be the best off this album imo. zombie was so good and i really liked the lyrics. the album as a whole was really really good. i sound like a broken record

children - bvndit

oh boy... another one of my top 5 releases from this year. not only is the overall sound of this amazing but i love the lyrics too. these girls deserve so much better

d-2 - agust d/yoongi/suga mixtape

my king. i shit myself when this dropped ngl... i don’t even know how to elaborate on how much i love this. daechwita was stuck in my head for the longest time.. i think the highlights off this for me have to be people, honsool & dear my friend. this mixtape was really a moment.. i love yoongi y’all

love again - baekhyun / underwater - baekhyun

alright alright .. i put these two together since they’re from the same album idk but it took a while for candy to grow on me but i’ve loved these since i first heard them... i was Obsessed. the final bridge/chorus whatever the hell thing he does in love again put me into shock for 3 months straight and the beat in underwater is heavenly

the dream chapter : eternity - txt ep

this serve. has to be my favorite from txt yet... rookies with the best discography fr. i love dark concepts and really like that they did something different with this. can’t you see me was Amazinggg. fairy of shampoo has to be one of the best songs i’ve ever heard it’s insane. i also really liked eternally, who else has that range... Nobody. top to bottom this ep is really good, i hope they do another dark concept like this again soon bc this hit big time

eight - iu & suga

it took a while for this to grow on me but whew...when it did... kinda makes me feel like i’m in a coming of age movie and i like that, makes me nostalgic for that. eight soty, they both did great on this

# - loona ep

Now... Cmon. so what was either a hit or miss for a lot of people but something i think everyone can agree on is that the bridge is godsent. like that shit makes me cry sometimes. the music video was really good, i always come back to the subway/train scene. number 1 is also so damn good. overall i really loved this ep. they really ate with this one

eyes wide open - twice album

when i first heard this album i didn’t like it That much but it’s really grown on me lately. the whole retro trend was fun and then it got a little overdone so i was tired of it by the time this dropped but actually.. some of the bsides are insanely good. behind the mask is definitely a highlight for me, mina’s bridge is heavenly. i love mina so bad. but anyway, i can’t stop me took some time to grow on me as well but it always gets stuck in my head. i also really like up no more & depend on you, they’re cute

maybe - gidle

Y’all... i love this song. it’s short and simple but it was so addicting to me. i really like that one part in the last two choruses if you know what i’m talking about (i’m not sure who sings it ? some people say soyeon some say shuhua idk, shuhua my queen btw) and soojin’s verse in the bridge hits. to this day i’m still obsessed with this song

a song written easily - oneus

this is so underappreciated, this is easily one of my favorite title tracks released all year. i’m not a huge fan of beat drops but this one was really nice imo, i also liked the lead in before the drop and the final chorus. this was really good and i never get sick of it

wannabe - itzy

CUT THE DAMN CAMERAS.... no fr this is my #1 favorite song released this year. talented brilliant incredible amazing... itzy seriously ate up everyone with this. i keep going back to this song it’s insane. iconic choreo good mv good styling amazing song.. like everything here lined up. i don’t know how they’ll ever top this for me. definitely my soty (next to psycho)

black swan - bts

this is excellent idk what else to say. i thought it was just okay when i first heard it but it’s seriously so good, me being yoongi biased i loved that he got multiple verses but i love the do your thing with me now breakdown part too. the choreo is one of my favorite from them and the mv was really pretty. black swan is one of my favorite movies so the comparisons with it made me love this song more. overall, probably my favorite off mots7

my time - jungkook of bts

jungkook always has the best album solos fr. i loved this the second i heard it, kinda justin bieber esque but it’s so good. i love the lyrics and transition it takes thru the song. the chorus hits man.. this song always makes me a little sad but he really did amazing on this

monster - red velvet irene & seulgi ep

my queens what can i say. i was so excited for this unit and they did not disappoint. monster still hits, aged like wine. the best track is fr feel good, i still have it on repeat.. insanely good. seulgi really delivered with uncover, it’s so beautiful. i think sm’s intention was always to have a subunit this year but i thought it was smart to do while wendy was recovering, hoping for ot5 soon y’all..

never gonna dance again : act 2 - taemin album

taemin my king wtf!!! i loved criminal so i was really excited for this and of course... he always delivers. top to bottom i loved this album, he really did amazing on it. identity might be the best song i’ve ever heard... and of course i loved the collab with wendy 🙏 overall such a good album, taemin always serves the best

pporappippam - sunmi

what can i say i love a little retro tune. even though i just said earlier i was sick of it idc i loved this. sunmi always shows up, i don’t know what else to say. this song never gets old

dystopia : the tree of language - dreamcatcher album

i didn’t expect to love this album as much as i did... i don’t listen to it as often anymore but i can’t deny that scream was a major serve. every time i hear it it’s like the first time... their bside jazz bar was so good. dreamcatcher’s bsides always hit what can i say

12:00 - loona ep

Yes. why not is not necessarily my favorite title from them ever (it’s butterfly, btw) but it’s always stuck in my head... obviously i loved voice/star, was obsessed for weeks and i was happy they decided to promote it a little. styling on those stages were so cute btw. i also loved fall again from this ep, chuu sounds angelic on it. loona had some amazing cbs this year

la di da - everglow

Obsessed. i watched every stage as they dropped and listened to this every 5 seconds, Amazing. sihyeon really owned this era for me and shes my bias so of course i ate this whole thing up. this was definitely one for the books, what more can i say

literally everything gfriend released this year

this might be their best year yet for releases imo, i really liked how they tried out different concepts and sounds this year, i’ve always loved their music but the switch was refreshing yknow. crossroads was so good, i loved that mv. here we are is still on repeat almost a year later... and now APPLE. apple was so mf good. i love that they decided to do a dark concept, this song really fit them well, still obsessed w it. mago might be my least fave out of the 3 but it’s still so good. don’t even get me started on yuju in the mv.. Queen. i liked the subunits on walpurgis night, especially better me. gfriend had a really good year imo, they deserved more for it.

Anyways. that was my 2 cents.

wannabe & psycho soty

[insomnihan]

han’s Entire Thoughts and Feelings on Dreamcatcher’s “Boca”

HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

there are no read mores here so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

ALRIGHT SO-

THE SONG HAD THE F UCKING NERVE THE AUDACITY THE GUMPTION AND THE GALL TO BE AS BOMB AS IT IS literally the moment i heard that rain and thunder i was f cukity F CIKED the way that they just know how to work with more gentle verse parts and theN PUNCH YOU IN THE FACE WITH THE CHORUS ITSELF SPEAKING OF THE CHORUS ITS F UCKING CRAZY??????????? THAT????????? GODDAMN GUITAR????????????? OWNS MY ASS??????????? OH MY F UCKING GOD JUST THE WAY GAHYEON STARTS IT OFF TO EASE US INTO IT HMMMMMMMMMM- THE ABSOLUTE POWER IN DAMIS FIRST RAP........... SHES SICK™ FOR THAT!!!!!! ‘HOLD UP’ YEAH HOLD UP I WASNT READY DAMN IT!!!!!!!!!!!! THEN DAMIS AND GAHYEONS RAPS IN THE SECOND VERSE YOU CANT EXPECT TO BE OKAY AFTER THAT™ ARE YOU SERIOUS- just all of their voices............ the way theyre just so powerful and emotional and you can tell............. siyeon pls your high notes holy f uck-

WHAT IM SAYING Is this song was such a good follow up to scream like F UCK i literally ask after every comeback ‘will they top this’ and tHEN THEY DO

i was so boo boo the fool like i really thought since diamond and breaking out fell into the same genre that it wouldnt be intense like This im 🤡

SO I WILL BE USING THE COMEBACK SHOWCASE TO TALK ABOUT THE DANCE BC OH MY GOD- so they all said that this song was their hardest dance yet................. queens of dance I F UCJUNG SWEAR

FIRST OF ALL THE BEGINNING POSE IS EVERYTHING™

THE PART AFTER THAT WITH DAMI PULLING YOOHYEON INTO HER SINGING PART....................... i just like it a lot

HONESTLY DAMIS ENTIRE PART

YOOHYEONS PART BEFORE THE CHORUS

THE ACTUAL CHORUS

both the upside down triangle hand symbol AND then for ‘boca’ where they make their hands like a mouth................... Iconic™

GAHYEON WITH THE FLAGS?????????? HELLO????????

and then dami................................. i-

the flags............... sua and jiu and yoohyeon.......... Thinking A Lot™

this part with jius bridge lives rent free in my brain

sua sitting on the dancers shoulders and singing the most hard hitting lyrics in the song thats it thats the bullet point

just................. the WHOLE ENDING

shouldve really just put the entire damn video here but i already wrote it out

THEY NEVER PLAY AROUND WITH THE VISUALS EVER!!!!!!!!!!! THE COLORS ARE ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS AND VIBRANT THE SETS ARE SO DREAMLIKE???????? I WISH I CAN FULLY EXPLAIN IT BUT ALL I COULD REALLY DO IS DESCRIBE THEM AS THEY ARE- THE PINK SET THEY DANCE IN IS SO COOL TO ME THE PLACE WITH THE TREES AND GRASS AND THEYRE DANCING IN THE F UCKING WATER AND WHERE GAHYEON HURTED US WITH HER RAP AND WHEN THEYRE ALL JUST STANDING AROUND LIKE BEAUTIFUL PRINCESSES AND WHERE YOOHYEON SAT AMAZINGLY- AND WHERE SIYEON STANDS WITH ALL THE BUSTS WITH TAPE OVER THEIR MOUTHS THE SYMBOLISM™!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THEN WHEREVER DAMI WAS IN GENERAL.................. [REST]

TIME TO SHOW WHICH SCENES I LIKED

THE WHOLE F UCKING THING MOVING ON-

T H E M

okay................................ everyone who follows me KNOWS that im just so whipped for all these women if i was a Brave Bicth™ id tell them they were all beautiful every day to their faces but if this is your first time seeing this CHAOTIC AS F UCK series of posts then-

LOOKATTHEMBEINGBEAUTIFULANDETHEREALPRINCESSESINONESCENETHENBADBITCHESINTHENEXTAREYOUKIDDINGMEICANTBELIEVETHEYREALLYOUTHERELOOKINGLIKETHIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JIU

BELLE????????????? BELLE IS THAT YOU???????????? why does Miss JiU over here just got to be one of the most beautiful women in the GODDAMN UNIVERSE I CANT STAND THIS LOOK AT THIS PICTURE!!!!!! i wont lie to yall but it was gonna be this one or the one kinda at the beginning where shes wearing red..................... and....................... her neck- THE RED IS FIRE BY THE WAY AND THE SAME OUTFIT BUT IN LIKE R.o.S.E BLUE WITH THE CHAIN STEP ON ME- and the black one that we dont really see a lot of.................. the sheer of it............ bicth-

SUA

yes it was absolutely necessary for me to use this shot

OFC MY BICTH ASS NEARLY FELL OFF HIS F CUKING BED WHEN SHE SHOWED UP IN THE TEASER JUST COVERED IN WATER I SWEAR I COULDNT BREATHE FOR LIKE TEN MINUTES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! first of all the red and blue ones just one sleeve and those shorts and all those belts I DUNNO JUST THIS WOMAN AND CROP TOPS OKAY IM LOSING IT IM THIS 👌 CLOSE and then the white dress i cant stand her i really cant-

SIYEON

HOOOOOOOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHO MISS LEE SIYEON OUT FOR MY NECK I SEE- i just wanna point out first that i love her love for pants like the rest of the outfits are gonna be worn for performing and they all have those baggy pants she loves so much pls shes everything im 🥺🥺🥺 tho the braids and the high ponytail without and yknow what WITH BANGS TOO im........................ i cant stop staring at this picture-

YOOHYEON

SHE IS NOW A LARGE AND SCARY DOG-

this specific hairstyle in the screenshot........ the braids the safety pins with the brown and pink or whatever it was like three different colors just the Serve™ she is serving in that with that outfit and the back of her skirt is long than the front im weak in the knees for you maam- oH THAT F UCKING RED ONE GRABBED MY NECK NAILS INTO MY SKIN AND ALL AND ENDED ME HONESTLY and that chain necklace.......................... keeping words to myself-

DAMI

SHES SO HOT AND FOR WHAT my god this blue hair she is WORKING IT- i had such a difficult time even finding a good screenshot of her and i know the moment i just decided with this one that i was just gonna keep getting distracted by it and i am rn as i type this GOD- the all black outfit she shows up in the very first time in the mv..................... [REST] the blue one with the thing on her thigh with the low ponytail................. [REST x2] herself....................... [D*AD]

GAHYEON

POPULAR OPINION: THIS IS HER ERA

THE MOMENT SHE JUST SHOWS UP RIGHT AT THE START SHE GRABBED US BY THE NECKS AND LET US KNOW SHES KILLING IT LIKE THIS this pink hair is doing her like two million favors like the space bun look right here???????? STUNNING just left long and straight??????? BEAUTIFUL the fit with the beige(?) sweater and skirt and that black outfit during her rap verse the pink dress iM D*AD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

BONUS TIME: B-SIDE TRACKS (short thoughts and parts i liked)

Intro

A SLAPPER WE LOVE TO HEAR IT-

Break the Wall

oH BICTH the way this song took me back to my edgy middle school years listening to music like this MY GOD THEIR VOICES SOUND SO COOL ON IT like they were using megaphones and s hit THE CHORUS IS SO GOOD IM GOING FERAL™ I FEEL LIKE I CAN CONQUER THE WORLD WITH THIS-

Can’t Get You Out Of My Mind

ALL ENGLISH SONG BICTH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! its all about the yearning its so catchy and good i was literally already singing it randomly right after the highlight medley like honestly this and break the wall are so nostalgic highkey- their pronunciation is so so SO good!!!!

Dear

JIUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 😭😭😭 IM SO SOFT DONT LOOK AT ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! she wrote this herself and its just so full of love and thankfulness and gratefulness and appreciation for insomnias SOMEONE PROTECT HER- and then the rest of the members singing so gently and beautifully there are real tears in my eyes...............

LIKE im just gonna say it every comeback now i guess THEY👏NEVER👏DISAPPOINT👏EVER👏 i love being an insomnia so much yknow??? love them as people love them for always providing content and always showing that they love and appreciate their fans and how they always make me laugh and feel better and most importantly of all is THEIR MUSIC not implying anything with capitalizing and bolding that............... unless they are so incredibly talented and show how versatile they are in so many different genres AND THEYVE GROWN SO MUCH IN POPULARITY THIS YEAR AND ARE NOW BEATING THEIR OWN GOALS im so happy to be their fan 😊😊😊 this just became a paragraph of me and how much i love them ANYWAY-

IN CONCLUSION: WHERE IS THE LOVE?????????? ITS BEING DIRECTED AT THIS ALBUM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

and AS TRADITION:

[fiftytwotwenty]

Movie Monday - Sept 7th, 2020

"Best Movie of the 90's"

Last August I discussed the "Best Movie of the 80's", Back to the Future (1985) and to me that choice was a no-brainer - in my mind no other movie even came close to encapsulating the 80's like Back to the Future.

But when it comes to the 90's, well, The 90's are in a class all its own. Just look at the Film Year 1994 - it is stacked: The Shawshank Redemption; The Lion King; Forrest Gump... Then 90's closed out strong in 1999: Fight Club; American Beauty; The Sixth Sense...

So in my journey today to declare the "Best Movie of the 90's" I am going to take a deep dive into the Class of the 1990's.

The Class Clown

Dumb & Dumber (1994):

Man, Oh, Man there were some breakthrough comedies in the 90's.

Former SNL castmates brought us major laughs - Farley and Spade hitting us with Tommy Boy, Meyers and Carvey giving Wayne's World, and Adam Sandler went solo in Billy Madison & Happy Gilmore...

BUT it was a In Living Color alum from Canada that was the main attraction - I'm talking about Jim Carrey's career year of 1994 which made him the highest paid and sought out actor. He gave us Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The Mask (the 4th highest grossing film of 1994 behind The Lion King, Forrest Gump, and True Lies), and Dumb & Dumber.

The Mask and Ace Ventura are great, but nothing hits the funny bone better than the duo of Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels.

The Burnout / Foreign Exchange Student

Trainspotting (1996):

We came a long way from the Cheech and Chong series of films in the 70's and Richard Linklater's 1993 Dazed and Confused actually took us back to the 70's - But it is Danny Boyle's Trainspotting which stands out as it not only shows us the highs of, well, getting high but also the bottomless lows.

Danny Boyle brought us humor, depression, great music from the punk bands of the UK, and of course, Ewan McGregor.

The Loner

The Blair Witch Project (1999):

In the 90's we were introduced to some groundbreaking storytellers like Tarantino and M. Night Shyamalan, but in 1999 we got a new breed of movie... The Found Footage Film.

In hindsight it's not that greatest story of all time, but it definitely gave middle schoolers of the era some serious heebie-jeebies and opened a whole new genre of horror films.

The "It" Couple

You've Got Mail (1998):

Freddie Prince Jr + Rachel Leigh Cook, Heath Ledger + Julia Stiles, Sandra Bullock + Bill Pullman, Julia Roberts + Hugh Grant, Julia Roberts + Richard Gere... All quaint couples but none can comapre to the onscreen magnetism of Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan.

Sure we first saw them in 1993 in Sleepless In Seattle but they solidified their onscreen relationship in Nora Ephron's, 1998's, You've Got Mail. Winning us over with quippy banter while taking us through the dawn of online dating.

The Glee Club

The Beauty and the Beast (1991) + Aladdin (1992) + The Lion King (1994):

The 90's was short-handed in Live Action Musicals but swung heavy with the Disney Renaissance which helped quench audiences' thirst for show tunes.

Now choosing between B&B, Aladdin, and The Lion King is like choosing between the which Boy Band had the best frosted tips. They are all great in their own right.

The AV Club

Jurassic Park (1993) + Toy Story (1995) + The Matrix (1999):

Whether you were a geek or a nerd - The 90's broke ground on making "dorkiness" cool with its Techinical Achievements:

Finally we were able to move away from stuttering stop animation and received a seamless moving imagery of dinosaurs on screen in Jurassic Park.

Toy Story pioneered the 3D Animation movement and revitalized the family friendly genre thus creating the Pixar powerhouse.

Then we have the Wachowski's who infused Cyberpunk with Martial Arts with a state of the art technology and a forward thinking style which all combined to create The Matrix, a film so unique that it hit an unknown gold standard. The Matrix also help shine light back on Keanu Reeves but sadly there still more is to be deisred in the black leather trench coat.

The Prom Queen

Clueless (1995):

The way people felt about 2011's Bridesmaids is the way I felt back in 1995 when I saw Clueless.

Clueless didn't win Prom Queen solely on its looks but mainly on its personality. It's Not funny for a chick-flick - It's funny, period! With a majority of leading cast being females, Clueless goes toe-to-toe with the best comedies. I cannot even count the number of repeat viewings.

The Goth Kid

Silence of the Lambs (1991):

What's the difference between The Goth Kid and The Loner...

The Goth Kid truly stands out.

This Oscar Award Winning Horror film (Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Director, Best (Adapted) Screenplay) truly gives you the willies but is hard to take your eyes off of Hannibal Lecter - I give all the credit to Anthony Hopkins, Jodie Foster, Ted Levine (Buffalo Bill) for making this a standout film.

And Now...

The Big Man on Campus

The Class President

The Valedictorian

The Best Movie of the 90's

Pulp Fiction (1994):

If you are like me the idea of attending the 10 year reunion is nonexistent, but in the back of your mind there is probably one individual you wouldn't mind catching up with one more time...

Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction.

When it was first on the scene you probably heard rumblings and rumors about Pulp Fictions antics in halls or in the workplace and when you finally got your first viewing it totally lived up to expectations.

It was fresh and nostalgic all at the same time with its nonlinear story and its pop culture bantar and boomer music.

Samuel L. Jackson, John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Bruce Willis, Ving Rhames, Tim Roth, Harvey Keitel, and Christopher Walken deliver 8-finger-death-punch of loveable characters and quotable lines.

Pulp Fiction was Tarantino's second outing but arguably his mostly highly regarded film. His writing on True Romance put his foot in the door, Reservoir Dogs gave him credibility, but Pulp Fiction made him a household name - no matter how rated "R" his films were.

I declare Pulp Fiction to be the Best Movie of the 90's:

[princesssarisa]

Opera tag

Inspired by @fairychamber‘s film tag.

Favorite Italian opera: Couldn’t possibly choose.

Favorite German-language opera: Die Zauberflöte (The Magic Flute). I wouldn’t be writing a novel based on it if it weren’t.

Opera with the most nostalgic appeal for you: Die Zauberflöte, Madama Butterfly and La Traviata. They were my first three.

Favorite French opera: Carmen, surprise, surprise.

Opera that makes you cry the most: La Bohéme. Not because of Mimí’s death, but because I’m a semi-bohemian aspiring writer myself, and the whole “youth is fleeting”/“bohemian idealism can’t last” theme hurts on a personal level.

Favorite English-language opera: Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Favorite comic opera: Il Barbiere di Siviglia, surprise, surprise.

Favorite 20th century opera: Madama Butterfly.

Favorite pre-Classical opera (from Monteverdi through the Baroque era): Monteverdi’s L’Orfeo.

Favorite Mozart opera: Die Zauberflöte or Don Giovanni.

Favorite Verdi opera: Rigoletto.

Favorite Wagner opera: I’m not into Wagner, but Der Fliegende Holländer is tolerable.

Most overrated opera: La Bohéme. I like it (or at least the parts where Rodolfo and Marcello don’t make me angry), but it’s not the “perfect opera” it’s so often claimed to be.

Favorite operatic heroine: Carmen or Violetta.

Favorite operatic leading male: Figaro.

Favorite operatic villain: Don Giovanni or the Queen of the Night.

Favorite opera for introducing the genre to children: Die Zauberflöte or Hänsel & Gretel.

Favorite opera to see during the holiday season: See above.

Opera you’re embarrassed that you love: Turandot. I can’t resist its music, even though it’s a nightmare of sexism and Orientalism. The ultimate guilty pleasure opera.

Opera you think has an unfairly bad reputation: Carmen, in terms of its gender and racial issues. It’s a problematic fave, of course, but I don’t think it inherently sides with José over Carmen or frames him as her victim. The cool objectivism of French opera (compared to bleeding-heart Italian opera – I notice the same thing contrasting Massenet’s Manon with Puccini’s Manon Lescaut) is a real blessing here. Bizet doesn’t tell you how to feel; you can draw your own conclusions about the two complex, ambiguous leading characters.

Favorite opera that’s a sequel to another opera: Le Nozze di Figaro (even though it predates Rossini’s Barbiere, we can count it as a sequel to Paisiello’s version, can’t we?).

Favorite silly operatic convention: The staging of death scenes so the dying person rises to their feet, staggers to center stage, and sings their final phrases for all those present onstage and all the audience to hear, then slumps dramatically to the floor. Some deaths are written that way (e.g. Violetta’s), and some even make sense in universe (e.g. Riccardo/Gustavo’s death in Ballo in Maschera – he’s a king giving his last address to his people), while others are staged that way even if they make no sense in context whatsoever (e.g. the deaths of Cappuccilli’s Rodrigo in the 1986 Salzbug Don Carlo, or Sills’ 1977 NYCO Manon). Completely unrealistic, yet quintessentially operatic.

Opera you could listen to again and again: Couldn’t possibly choose just one.

@simone-boccanegra, @beckmessering, @devilishlyoperatic, @notyouraveragejulie

[chriscdcase95]

Reposting for TLDR reasons. 

To see the full rant, click the “Keep Reading”, but this covers what I consider an example of a show taking shipping wars too seriously, giving fans and how it can potentially pull a show down the tubes. Especially at the expense of character development and their stories.

It’s kind of a follow-up to another post I made about canon and non canon ships, and how there’s some ship based stories better left to fanfiction.

Disclaimer: I generally don’t like Ship Policing (bullying, and badgering other people for liking “the wrong ship”) despite this being one of my biggest NOTP’s. I don’t intend to bully people who like this ship, and this analysis is based on my observations and opinions. 

So here I am talking about a barley known show and ship that’s barely relevant anymore if at all. This is a follow up post on a Loud House post regarding a non canon ship called Luaggie. I mentioned on that post , how it was an example of a fanfic ship and it’s best to be left a fanfic based ship. I now bring to you it’s antithesis; Jemma of Every Witch Way. Originally this was strictly about why some ships and stories that are best left to fanfiction, but there are so many problems with this ship, that I don’t really know where to start. I guess I’ll start with an introduction to the show.

Edit: I also had to revisit to trim this down, and correct misinformation.

Edit Edit: Twice. I had to edit it twice!

“What is Every Witch Way ?”

Every Witch Way was a comedy/drama series on Nickelodeon. Anyone who heard of it would know it is an Americanized remake of Grachi, a Latin American Nickelodeon series. The less educated may dismiss it as a Wizards of Waverly Place knockoff. The series focuses on Emma Alonso, a teenage girl who moves to Miami with her father and discovers she is a witch and chosen to one day lead the magical realm. With a group of muggle friends, the enthusiastic tough girl Andi; Emma’s queen bee rival Maddie also being a witch; a subplot about Fantastic Racism that ended with the wiping out of all but two of an entire race; we got ourselves a simple little TV show that could be a passible watch.

Coming from a post iCarly, Victorious and Big Time Rush era of Nickelodeon, where most of their shows were marketed to the younger kids and barely anything for teens to chew on, Every Witch Way was a breath of fresh air. Taking cues from previous Nick shows such as H2O Just Add Water and House of Anubis, and aimed for a teenage audience, it was more interested in telling stories than telling jokes.

I would have called the show an underrated cult classic series to get nostalgic over, like The Troop (a show which I’ll also talk about one day)…then comes seasons three and four and it becomes clear that Every Witch Way is more interested in ship war than it was telling stories. Maybe I was giving the show too much credit or had too much expectations for it. Let’s just say this was no House of Anubis or the Avatar franchise. I don’t know what pulled the show down the tubes; it was either the character Jax Novoa and his story arc, or his relationship with Emma. But they overlap with eachother so I might as well cover all of them.

“What kind of relationship is Jemma ?”

Imagine if you will; a high school drama, that involves a loving, kind and empathetic girl meeting a dark brooding bad boy, who does bad things. But because he has a sad past and bad parents, anything bad he does is immediately forgiven and brushed aside, or justified. And it is by the love of this girl, and only because of this love, does the bad boy get redeemed. 

It’s the kind of story you see in mediocre romance stories or fanfics; the idea that the dark and brooding love interest with a bad past or history can be changed for the better with the love of the protagonist. This describes the relationship Emma and Jax’s relationship to such a tee that it’s borderline parody. The kind of reationship you’d at least put some kind of spin on.

So how does this compare to Jax and Emma’s relationship ? A quick description is that Jax is a new student and a dark seeming wizard introduced in the second season, who immediately displays an arrogant personality and behaviour while befriending Emma and putting the moves on her (and making a quick rivalry with Emma’s then boyfriend Daniel). Emma has a good heart, and a loving empathetic girl, so of course she likes to see the good in people and Jax was no exception. Jax eventually “changes” his darker ways and becomes more altruistic, mainly to get back and stay into Emma’s good graces. 

Normally, I have no issues with an Enemies to Lovers story, but it’s the context and overexposure that puts Jemma in a bad light.

Emma continuously forgives, or ignores Jax’s flaws to near absurdity, mainly because Jax has a dead mom and an emotionally distant, controlling and seemingly abusive father…which is shown to be false in the many retcons season four gives us.

“What are the problems with Jemma ?”

I said in another post that a friend of mine defined toxic relationships differently than I did; one definition was that a ship is toxic based off of fans behaviour in the name of the ship; I define them for how much it romanticizes problematic behaviour. How does Jemma fall into either of these ?

Back when Every Witch Way was on, Jax x Emma fans were pretty rapid, and became the most loud and vocal part of the fanbase. Any attempts to criticize Jax, his behaviour or relationship with Emma is bombarded with “HE CHANGED! HE CHANGED FOR HER!” ad nauseum. 

It’s gotten to the point where they literally vote their preference to make them the shows official couple. This can be partially blamed on the writers because they went about asking their audience what they want to happen in a TV show, having them vote for wat hey want to happen and in turn made season four into a Jemma based AU fic that rewrote the entire show. Kind of lacks integrity if you ask me. It also had to have been one of most one sided and manufactured shipping wars I’ve seen. By the end of the series, Jemma fans were pretty sore winners.

So Jemma fans could be pushy, but did Jax and Emma’s relationship entail toxic ideals I listed above ? On the surface, “no” since Jax doesn’t physically abuse Emma or the like…but Jax is manipulative person, and is rather possessive and entitled towards Emma all things considered. And what else can you say about a relationship where this partner has manipulated and gaslighted nearly everyone around him to get in, and attempts to destroy the world over a breakup ?

There’s so much to cover that stems from Jax that I might as well write a section on Jax himself. The worst that can be said of Emma here is that she was too forgiving and empathetic for her own good.

“Jax and how not to write a redemption arc”

So Jax is an overwhelmingly popular character on the show, so much that season four retconned him into the main character behind Emma. It’s easy to call him a Gary Stu character since he’s a seemingly perfect character who gets his way all the time and soon becomes the center of the show. This trope also fits; “Draco In Leather Pants” where a villain tends to get romanticized or woobified in fanfics regardless of how sympathetic or redeemable they are in canon; mostly because they are cute.

When Jax was introduced, he was the de-facto Big Bad of season two, being the most prominent, and personal antagonist and direct source of most of the drama that occurs in the season. Throughout the season he befriends and puts the moves on Emma with the intent on using the power coming Fool Moon (long story) to take over the world and rule at her side. Jax eventually falls in love with Emma, but when she breaks up with him when she makes right with Daniel… Jax’s response was aiding in an attempt to destroy the magic realm; something they make clear would kill all but a few magical beings in the world and this is something Jax is very aware of In the final showdown Jax makes it clear to Emma that he doesn’t care about what could happen to their loved ones in this magical apocalypse, so long as Emma is with him.

Again, I wouldn’t take this as seriously if the show didn’t treat it as seriously.

Now in his defense, I was originally rooting for Jax to reform himself. No joke, I genuinely wanted to see how Jax would make good with those he manipulated, pushed around and tried to fucking kill. I like a good redemption stoy as much as the next guy, but Jax doesn’t really go through one; he just turns Face at the last minute, apologizes to Emma about not wanting to hurt her, Emma immediately forgives him and Jax wastes no time putting the moves on her and antagonizing Daniel. What punishment does Jax go through ? What atonement did he have to suffer ? He’s put through a boot camp with the threat losing his powers, all the while he agonizes that those who he wronged still resent him. To be fair he does have genuine good deeds in season three; such as heping a dying friend, and even riskiig his life to save another But even then, the sho treats Emma as his prize for being a Nice Guy, and he admits this to Emma during the third seasons finale in a scene we are supposed to find romantic. And when he gets the girl, its all rendered moot in season four.

Helping or not helping with Jax’s character is that in season two he is given multiple “excuses”; controlling and abusive father, seemingly dead mother. They worked back then in making Jax sympathetic. The problem is when we get the actual revelations of his family and in turn make him unsympathetic in retrospect.

“The Mess That Is Season Four”

I don’t like the Fanon Discontinuity trope - where fans refuse to accept an istallment as canon out of a dislike of them. I generally don’t apply this trope with very few exceptions. But let me tell you this; when I say season four isn’t canon to the previous seasons, that’s not me talking, that’s the show itself talking. 

It isn’t a continuation of the previous seasons, it’s a reboot. When Emma and Jax become the shows OTP, the universe literally changes around them. Season four introduces a plot point that where an SCP style anomaly exists called a Continuum Break, in which as a direct result of Emma’s decision, the universe casted Daniel out of everyone’s lives, and their friends memories, and retroactively replaces him with Jax. Subsequently, the events of the previous seasons and their conflicts revolve around Jax and Emma’s relationship. 

One reason why these retcons don’t work is that because the world was altered in Jemma’s image, Jax here isn’t the same Jax as we knew through season two and three. The retcons fail because Jax’s previous sympathy is erased in retrospect, because Jax would hide behind his parents as an excuse for his actions (the dead mother wasn’t dead, but in fact, secret villain; and Jax’s abusive father wasn’t abusive). Jax being sympathetic hinged off of these excuses, and they either never applied, or was hit by the reset button, and thus irrelevant to his development.

And I am left asking myself why the writers came up with the Continuum Break in the first place ?Where Jemma fans that pushy about making their ship canon that they had to make it the only canon relationship in the show ? If so, that’s how wildly Jemma shippers are, if not that’s on the writers for being that much fan slaves. What other point could there be in portraying the Continuum Break as the way things should be ? Not to be pesimeistic, but it feels like this is the show throwing a character under the bus for the sake of rewriting the previous seasons and making Jax the new protagonist.

On top of that, other characters and arcs get thrown under the bus too

Mainly, Mia Black, who was introduced in season three as the de-facto main antagonist, and is added as another member of the love triangle. Mia is also affected by the Continuum Break as she is also cast from everyone’s memories and lives, to live an alternate life with Daniel. This is arguably more jarring than Daniel being taken away because Mia ultimately doesn’t sacrifice her morals for what she believes in and ultimately wasn’t that much of a threat and her own redemption arc is foreshadowed throughout the season by bonding with Daniel and Diego, and the added empathise on how lonely she is. This culminates in Emma reaching out to her in the season finale, and declaring herself her protector.  Like Jax, I was looking forward to seeing where they would take Mia and her arc the next season. Well as a result of the Continuum Break, she’s out of everyone’s lives, and living an artificial alternate one the universe spat out. Like Daniel, she may have been happy with her new life, but it still renders everything they foreshadowed for her and what she’s been through for nothing.

Personal conclusion

I reiterate my first statement Every Witch Way was a great show (first three seasons, at least is IMO). It was a breath of fresh air in a time when most of Nick’s shows were targeting a younger demographic in a post iCarly, Big Time Rush, and Victorious era. I’d call it an cult classic series, but I still feel that season four keeps it from being one of the great ones. I do recommend checking the series out, the story arcs are mostly good. Unfortunately by the time season four rolled in, it seemed pretty clear the show was more interested in shipping wars than it was in telling it’s stories.

I can’t really pinpoint what caused the show to drop in quality; the manufactured ship war ? Jax as a character ? Jemma’s pushy fans ? The writers for bending to fan demands ? Either way, season four’s Continuum Break was something the show could have done without. I won’t say that Jax is the most unlikeable character on the show (that would be Emma’s father) and he isn’t the most evil either (that would be Torres). I consider Jax and his blunders more so the fault of how he was written than anything else.

I will give Jax and Jemma this; the character and ship has so much going for it, I can’t help but compare and contrast them to other similar characters, story arcs and ships. I use it as an example of not to write a redemptive romance, and why some things are best left to fanfiction. But above all else, I hold it as an example as to why writers and creators shouldn’t sacrifice their stories blindly cater to fans and popular ships.

[venus-says]

Aikatsu! Episodes 174-178

The end of an Era.

We're finally here! After almost 3 weeks, 22 posts, 133 episodes, I've finally made it, I've finished ogkatsu. Wow. What a journey.

But I'm getting ahead of myself, I have still more 5 episodes to talk about before I can get all sad and nostalgic, so let's get right to it.

Episodes 174 to 177 cover the Starlight Queen Cup, so instead of going in deep on each episode, I'll make a general comment of the events.

I think there's a serious problem with structure here because the performances of each character we follow are right back to back this doesn't let enough time in between performances for some more deep issues to be developed and for us to absorb more what was happening on screen. I also don't like the scoring system and how the results were being presented because I feel like it took away a little bit of the surprise element of "who's gonna win?". But I think these are probably the only problem of the cup itself.

Going on the final arcs for each character in order of performance.

Juri is one of the weakest arc, we barely see her in these episodes, she gets a new PR out of nowhere, and even "without" effort she scores so well that she remains on the top for two days. It's clearly the less interesting one.

My baby Risa has probably my favorite development out of the 8, she takes another step into being herself and not just the NoRi NoRi entity which I like, she brought something new performance-wise, and by the end of it she's the one who seems to have grown more in this short amount of time around the SQC. I have a problem with them pulling the "Mizuki is my idol" card here without having any mention of his before, but in the end, they use this in a good way because it gives more pressure on Risa and this gets her on her path to be herself. I also love the rhyme of the last sexy type idol introduced singing the first sexy type song of the show/game.

Nono was great as well, she was adorable as ever in being concerned for Risa and deciding that she would work even harder to avenge her friend. The problem I have is that we didn't get to see a lot of her here, in 174 she was there to support Risa, in 175 she barely got screen time, and she was almost completely forgotten in episodes 176 and 177. I think they could've done more with her.

And more with Rin and Madoka as well that also didn't get that much time to shine, like aside from background scenes I can only remember of them in that scene where they're playing a game in the night because Rin was anxious and during their performances and evaluation. I think they only appear in these instances and when they go support their unit member, and that wasn't even that long. I also don't get why Rin used her first PR here instead of her second, in my head that doesn't make a lot of sense.

Hinaki comes next and I feel like she got the Nono treatment out of the Luminas girls, we barely saw her, she didn't have a major conflict and aside from dethroning Juri, she didn't do a lot in these episodes. But I do appreciate Mikuru giving her support, shows that they're still developing their relationship so that's a plus.

Sumire was also like Hinaki for some time, but she got a major focus on episode 176. And I think she is the one who suffers the most out of the structural problem I've mentioned at the beginning because she failed, and the vibe surrounding that failure was very sad, and I think if we had more time to actually feel this sorrow, to understand Sumire's feelings and what was going through her mind, this would've turned from just a shocking moment into a very memorable moment not just because Sumire failed the appeal. I don't know if I'm explaining myself well here but I had a feeling they wanted to make this moment be something bigger, something better developed, but they messed up with the timing and we got what we got.

Surprisingly enough, Akari didn't get a lot from these episodes. Yes, she becomes the queen, but aside from that, we don't see her having a conflict. This gives me mixed feelings her win feels emotional but not for something she has done in the present but for her trajectory since she started, and while this is magnificent I wish she had some emotional development of her own, to make this win feel even more special.

The last thing I have to say about the cup is that the ending was quite underwhelming and anti-climatic, and I blame this on the structure. Had they spaced the performances out, Akari's performance would be in the second half and the end of the cup wouldn't feel as rushed as it was. I think this would've been beneficial also for the episode 178 because they could come up a better plot for the final episode that way, to make the final episode be more emotional, because I gotta be honest this last episode didn't gave me the feel of "Oh this is ending" that you would expect from such an important episode. Yes, the side characters interacting on the sideways of the race was kinda cute, but overall the episode was pretty bland.

And, for the last time, that was Aikatsu. This was a wild ride, and even though my sleep schedule has been a mess since I began this, I'm still happy that I've done it because this show is amazing, I may complain a lot about things, but the complaints come from a place of love because I really do love Aikatsu, and making this marathon gave me a new respect for the series and the franchise as a whole. Final balance: very positive. My only regret is that sadly I couldn't use a picture of Nono and Risa in the cover of all four posts of season 4 and I feel like I've failed my girls. Tomorrow I'm finally in Stars territory and I'm pumped for it. See you guys. Bye-bi~

[theloniousbach]

50 Years of Going to Shows, Pt. 3: Portrait of the Rock Fan as an Old Man

Rediscovering the Grateful Dead in the late 1980s led to going to rock concerts again, both THEM at the end and then their aftermath.  If that was part 2, this part 3 is about other latter day rock’n’roll.

While the Allman Brothers had been disappointing at Royals Stadium in 1973, they were balm in September 1995 with Garcia’s death looming.  They went into a St. Stephen’s jam in the middle of an always climactic “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” that was soothing and hard charging.  Dicky Betts was around, so I guess that was the last time I saw him, but so was Warren Haynes.  So that was the first time I saw him as he was already a workhorse and a consummate professional.  I can’t say I thought they were great, but it sure was good to see them.  A later show in 2005, Haynes with Derek Trucks, was equally solid.  They were showing their age, as the GD had, but were invigorating the set lists and their self conception.  It helped to have Haynes and especially Trucks.  Poor Haynes, he is so very very good, but the first time I saw him, he was an after thought to Betts.  This time Trucks showed for the first time what a rare talent he is.  Jimmy Herring was often the lyrical soaring voice in Lesh’s Q.  Haynes just shows up and plays his ass off, always part of the first string.

So Gov’t Mule has been a must see when they come through.  I have found myself noticing different things each time.  One time it was the phrase by phrase construction of his solos with subtle adjustments of pick ups, one it was his singing, another time his set list construction and his exquisite taste in covers, the way he leads the band.  This guy is a pro and he leads a musician’s band.  Somebody once said that before smoking heroin, Garcia’s first addiction was music.  Haynes may not be addicted but he is an adventurous and wonderfully restless musician.  I was out of town for interesting experiments like the Warren Haynes Band which was very r&bish and a tour with acoustic musicians that was about songs.  But I would have gone.

The Derek Trucks Band was prodigy-ous, very good but not quite gelled.  Trucks deferred to his older drummer as the emcee and Kofi Burbridge and Mike Mattison (both of whom came into his band, their band with Susan Tedeschi) were important supports.  The material was clever and adventurous, but it wasn’t quite there.

Now, the Tedeschi Trucks Band is a beast, the best show on the road doing the music that matters to me.  She has one of the great voices and is no slouch on guitar.  They have everything, two drummers, horns, back up vocals, and a remarkable range and scope.  I have just realized how much they owe in conception and even cover tunes to the Joe Cocker/Leon Russell Mad Dogs and Englishmen project.  I have seen them three times but have not opted for their summer Wheels of Soul tours as one set from them on a week night after two supporting bands has not appealed.  I have couch toured with them for a couple of shows in February 2019.

I have tried to make up for lost ground too.  I have tried, honest I have, to get the Uncle Tupelo heritage, alt country being something I know I missed by being a jazz snob by the late 1970s and then gladly going with trad folk/Celtic/Balkan as the family’s music.  But I don’t hear songs well and don’t hang on lyrics anyway.  So a couple of Son Volt shows and one Jay Farrar were solid, interesting, and didn’t grab me.  Neither did a Wilco one.  Tweedy too has some songs and Nels Cline, whose path I’ve crossed in some jazz circles, is an interesting guitar colorist.  But, that’s enough.

I had more success with Elvis Costello who has put on some good expansive tours.  One used a spinning roulette type wheel to determine the set lists, but it was happily rigged to make sure that everything got played.  Another used a set to visit different eras.  That one included Larkin Poe as openers.  They were pretty nifty, but they have resurfaced and stand out as the future.

He also opened for Bob Dylan (2007ish) and frankly was more impressive.  That was the last time I saw Dylan and I’m glad I saw another tour circa 2004, but I don’t have the new tunes fixed in my mind and don’t plan to.  The old ones are sometimes hard to place.  I’m glad he’s still on the road and that he’s hardly a nostalgia act.  But he’s not doing much I need to hear.

My concert partners have encouraged me to try some things that have been worthwhile but not lasting.  Grace Potter was fine, but my song deafness was a factor.  Robert Randolph captures a nifty roots genre, sacred steel, and then brings it forward into a mix of rock and soul.  And I have twice bought tickets for the Yonder Mountain String Band and missed both due to illness.  I have resigned myself to being jinxed and don’t even try, preferring to stay healthy. I saw String Cheese Incident as a headliner for which Ratdog opened, but they didn’t do much for us and we walked out.  

I have passed on Phish but did see the Trey Anastasio Band twice.  Of course, he’s an amazing guitar player and this band is rootsier (the horns help) with some good covers.  But his songs are slight.  As a second generation jam band, he/they listened to first gen bands, Zappa, and prog rock whereas the first gen, especially the Dead, listened to jug bands, old time, bluegrass, and country.  So it’s less grounded.

I did see some free concerts here in St. Louis of people I would have wanted to see.  There was a late 1980s tour of The Band and they got away with using the name with Levon Helm, Rick Danko, and Garth Hudson holding up the legacy.  Around the same time or probably the summer before or after, Dr. John came through and that was welcome.

A local blues festival brought in Taj Mahal and I’m glad I got to see him as he was a hero of my youth.  Quite an influence too as country blues became part of the folk legacy I have gravitated too.

But this stuff should be dynamic and not nostalgic.  So I may have a couple of youngish bands that I am watching.

I mentioned Larkin Poe via Elvis Costello.  I found them doing hotel room videos of important covers which means, like Jackie Greene, that they are influenced by the right mix of rock, soul, and above all blues.  They have strong rootsy albums of their own.  Rebecca Lovell has one of those powerful Southern voices and is the articulate voice of their shared intelligence about the music.  Big sister Megan is “the slide queen” having rigged a lap steel like a dobro she can play standing up.  She is an amazing player.  I saw them In an outdoor club that I anticipate they will outgrow.  They are doing some festivals this summer that should garner/has garnered the attention of biggies in the blues scene—Eric Gales, Joe Bonamassa, and maybe even Warren Haynes—that should pay dividends.  Remember, I saw them back in the day.

It was covers too that called Lake Street Dive to my attention.  But, besides the incredible voice of Rachael Price, they also have a nifty band sound anchored by Bridget Kearney on bass.  They too have listened to soul and other roots, but also have a mix of pithy guitar or trumpet and a subtle approach to percussion.  They are already a big deal and may have settled into an audience.  But it’s one that I join as an older member.  Larkin Poe has a levy of my generation locked into the blues and Jackie Greene has Deadheads along for the ride.  But LSD has its own hipster identity.

So, the music keeps growing and maybe I do too.

[joeygoeshollywood]

My 25 Favorite Films of 2017

It’s hard to believe that 2017 is already coming to a close. Here’s my 25 favorite films from the year!

25. Girls Trip

Perhaps it’s the Bridesmaids or The Hangover of 2017, Girls Trip is a fun, buddy comedy about a group of women who try to rekindle their friendship during a trip to New Orleans. Queen Latifah and Jada Pinkett Smith are always reliable and Regina Hall is an underrated lead, but it’s breakout star Tiffany Haddish that gets the biggest laughs. 

24. All The Money in the World

All The Money in the World is a good film on its own, but what makes it historic is what went on behind the scenes. Ridley Scott pulled off the impossible by replacing its disgraced star Kevin Spacey with Christopher Plummer with only roughly a month ahead of its original Christmas release. The film is based on the events of the 1973 kidnapping of John Paul Getty’s grandson. All The Money is a highwire thriller, but it’s Plummer’s brilliant, cold-hearted performance that steals the show. 

23. Okja

Korean director Bong Joon-ho behind such films as The Host and Snowpiercer debuted this gem. Okja follows a girl’s battle to protect her “superpig” from a juggernaut company that plans on turning her pet into food. This action adventure was easily one of Netflix’s strongest original films to date. The stellar cast includes Tilda Swinton, Paul Dano, Jake Gyllenhaal, Steven Yeun, Lilly Collins, and newcomer Seo-hyeon Ahn. 

22. Battle of the Sexes

Emma Stone and Steve Carrell face off as Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs in the most historic tennis match in history. Battle of the Sexes is a fun, empowering, nostalgic sports dramedy from Little Miss Sunshine’s Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris. 

21. Stronger

Based on the incredible true story, Stronger follows Jeff Bauman and his struggle for normalcy after surviving the Boston Marathon bombing. Time and time again, Jake Gyllenhaal proves to be one of Hollywood’s most under-celebrated actors today as he arguably gives the most challenging performance of his career. Tatiana Maslany (Orphan Black) also deserves praise for her raw, emotional supporting role. Stronger is a powerful, moving biopic that reminds us that there’s always hope even in the darkest moments. 

20. Split

After releasing numerous duds, it appears that M. Night Shyamalan is finally making a comeback. Split kicked off 2017 with a wild psychological thriller surrounding the kidnapping of three young women who’ve been imprisoned by a man with multiple personality disorder. James McAvoy gives a memorable performance as he channels well over a dozen personalities. 

19. Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman broke the glass ceiling on many fronts: one being the first female-lead superhero blockbuster and such a blockbuster was directed by a woman. Gal Gadot made her big-screen debut as the Amazon princess in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, but she absolutely nails it in her first solo flick. Many have considered this film to be the strongest film in the DC Cinematic Universe yet. 

18. Alien: Covenant

Ridley Scott certainly kept himself busy this year. In the latest chapter of this deep-space horror franchise, a colony ship makes a fatal detour on a planet filled with our favorite aliens. Accompanied by an all-star cast, Michael Fassbender is on double duty with two fantastic performances. While Prometheus settled the groundwork, Alien: Covenant returned to its heart-pounding roots that made these films such a big success. 

17. It

Very rarely do remakes exceed its predecessors, but the 2017 remake of Stephen King’s It really deserves praising. Bill Skarsgård managed to make Pennywise his own with his terrifying interpretation of the murderous clown. That being said, the film heavily relies on the tremendous cast of young actors including Jaeden Lieberher, Sophia Lillis, Finn Wolfhard, Jack Dylan Grazer, Wyatt Oleff, Chosen Jacobs, and Jeremy Ray Taylor. Filled with good scares and disturbing imagery, It will have a new generation afraid of clowns. 

16. Darkest Hour

Gary Oldman gives a transformative, Oscar-worthy performance as British Prime Minister Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour. The film takes place during the chaotic transition period the United Kingdom face in the midst of WWII and gives a glimpse of Churchill’s bumpy start to his successful era of leadership. Darkest Hour is a captivating drama with sprinkled humor throughout. 

15. Get Out

Part horror, part thriller, part social satire, Get Out marks the directorial debut of funnyman Jordan Peele. An interracial couple is put to the test when the black boyfriend visits the white girlfriend’s family, but once he gets there, he’ll learn that her family may have something sinister planned for him. While it’s sort of hard to explain it, Get Out is a unique, thought-provoking, movie-going experience unlike any other in 2017 that’s carried by a strong cast and an intriguing plot. 

14. The Wedding Plan

Chances are you haven’t heard of The Wedding Plan, but it’s one of the most relatable films of the year. This Israeli romantic comedy follows an anxious bride-to-be who decides to keep her wedding date after her fiancé dumped her just weeks before and literally relies on faith in order to find a groom before she walks down the aisle. Yes, the plot’s that zany, but Noa Koler’s heartwarming and heartbreaking performance truly carries the film. 

13. Dunkirk

It’s been three long years, but Christopher Nolan returned with an immersive war flick Dunkirk, which depicts the underdog WWII rescue effort of the British military that was surrounded by German troops. While there isn’t exactly a straight-forward plot, the incredible cinematography, editing, and sound design keep audiences on the edge of their seats. 

12. War of the Planet of the Apes

An epic conclusion to one of the strongest trilogies in recent memory, War of the Planet of the Apes was a rare reboot that actually exceeded its predecessors. For three films, Andy Serkis brilliantly humanizes the lead ape Caesar as the climax escalates the brutal battle between human and ape. 

11. The Shape of Water

If Beauty and the Beast and Creature From The Black Lagoon had a beautifully weird baby, it would be Guillermo del Toro’s latest film The Shape of Water. The story surrounds a mute janitor who forms a relationship with a creature trapped in the laboratory she works at and her personal mission to help him escape. She doesn’t even speak a word, yet Sally Hawkins gives one of the best performances of the year and she’s joined by a spectacular supporting cast including Octavia Spencer, Michael Shannon, Richard Jenkins, and Michael Stuhlberg. Visually stunning and emotionally enthralling, this is del Toro’s best film since Pan’s Labyrith. 

10. Call Me By Your Name

An emotionally complex film, Call Me By Your Name tells the story of a romance that blossoms between a 17-year-old boy and his father’s 24-year-old research assistant. In the wake of the #MeToo movement, such an inappropriate relationship would/should be frowned upon, but as viewers, you sympathize with Elio and Oliver not just because they’re likable characters but for the powerful performances that came with them, particularly from breakout star Timothée Chalamet. 

9. The Killing of a Sacred Deer

The closest thing to an Alfred Hitchcock film in 2017, The Killing of a Sacred Deer is a suspenseful, psychological thriller that virtually no one saw. The film follows teenager who gets brutal revenge after a doctor failed to save his father’s life. Newcomer Barry Keoghan, who you’ve might have seen in Dunkirk, gives a unsettling, outstanding performance. Between this and his last film The Lobster, writer/director Yorgos Lanthimos is proving to be a filmmaker Hollywood should watch out for. 

8. The Disaster Artist

If you haven’t seen The Room, it’s a 2003 film that has earned a cult following because it’s so incredibly bad, it became unintentionally hysterical. The Disaster Artist is about the making of that film with James Franco starring, producing and directing the film. Franco manages to earn big laughs and also give a transformative performance as the infamous Tommy Wiseau. With tons of A-list cameos and a brutal glimpse of the film industry, The Disaster Artist made the making of a painfully bad film painfully funny. 

7. The LEGO Batman Movie

Not only was this a great animated movie, it was also a great Batman movie. The LEGO Batman Movie allows its self-awareness to drive the narrative that examines Batman’s relationship on a psychological level. Filled with tons of fun Easter eggs and references to previous Batman films, this LEGO movie will leave you nostalgic and laughing til it hurts. 

6. Lady Bird

Actress Greta Gerwig makes a strong directorial debut with this down-to-earth coming of age comedy about a Sacramento teen transitioning into adulthood. In film after film, Soirse Ronan shows that she’s one of the best actresses in the millennial generation and Laurie Metcalf, who may win the Oscar playing her heartfelt but judgmental mother, shows that she’s one of the most under-celebrated actresses of our time. 

5. The Big Sick

The greatest romantic comedy since Silver Linings Playbook, The Big Sick is a rare film because it feels authentic and real... and that’s probably due to the fact that it’s based on the stranger-than-fiction true story behind Kumail Nanjiani and Emily Gordon’s relationship. Nanjiani essentially stars as himself (which he does a terrific job) and has great chemistry with his co-star Zoe Kazan. Ray Romano and Holly Hunter give hilarious, heartwarming performances as the parents who meet Nanjiani as their daughter is in a coma. From the culture clashes, the comedy industry, to the modern era of dating, The Big Sick feels more relevant than ever and can resonate with any audience. 

 4. Coco

Disney/Pixar has a gift of continuously melting people’s hearts. And they do so again with their beautifully-animated latest, Coco. Miguel is an aspiring musician in a family that has banned music after his great grandfather abandoned them for pursue stardom. And after being transported into the Land of the Dead, Miguel must track down his ancestor in order to return home. The importance of art is obviously a theme, but the heart of the film is about family, pursuing our dreams, and the significance of leaving a legacy. Coco is rich with a cast of lovable characters, great music, and a satisfying ending that may leave you in tears. 

3. Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri 

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri may be a mouthful, but it’s also masterful work from writer/director Martin McDonagh. Frances McDormand gives an Oscar-bound performance as grieving, no-nonsense mother determined to pressure the police to solve the murder of her daughter. She is accompanied by a strong ensemble cast which include strong supporting performances from Sam Rockwell and Woody Harrelson. Three Billboards is the only film this year that will make you laugh, cringe, and anxious all at once. It’s the closest thing to Fargo since Fargo... and the Fargo TV series. 

2. Baby Driver

Edgar Wright, the mastermind behind Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World, finally found commercial success with Baby Driver, a terrifically-edited heist film with the greatest film soundtrack in recent memory. Aside from the uncomfortable fact this will go down as Kevin Spacey’s last great film, Ansel Elgort proves he’s got the chops for a leading role. With lots of well-choreographed action sequences and even some laugh, Baby Driver is absolute fun and is why we go to the movies. 

1. I, Tonya

Who would have thought that it would take a dark comedy to make Tonya Harding look sympathetic? I, Tonya is a unique, Goodfellas-like biopic that gives multiple, not entirely reliable perspectives surrounding the infamous attack of Nancy Kerrigan. Margot Robbie offers a layered, grounded depiction of someone who was painted as a cultural villain. Allison Janney also knocks it out of the park as her cruel yet hilarious mother. The works of director Craig Gillespie and screenwriter Steven Rogers have spanned decades, but their collaboration here is the best of their careers. Combined with great editing and an awesome soundtrack, I, Tonya is a rare film in 2017 that isn’t just another remake, sequel, or ripoff; it skates on its own. 

[corellianangel]

Fan Review: Solo: A Star Wars Story

May contain minor/some spoilers after the cut.

I suspect that Solo: A Star Wars Story might be a bit like its title character. A bit rough at the start, maybe shady, pretty good-looking, and definitely out to get your money. But, as it goes on, it becomes more and more apparent how good and truly nostalgic and lovable it is.

This is a film that “nobody wanted.” Which means...what? I wanted it. When I saw Star Wars ANH, I wanted to know all about that cool Solo guy. And finally, 41 years later, I got my wish. And yeah… I’m mostly happy. After Last Jedi, I was pretty much done with the franchise, so it’s not like I went in with high hopes.

Solo is a relatively low stakes reprieve from the “we must save the world/galaxy/universe” all-or-nothing epic trope that has plagued us for the last few years. This is an adventure, a coming of age, and a western heist. Stakes are high, but only for the characters you are relating with onscreen, making it a curious addition to this year’s blockbusters.

Make no mistake; This is a love-letter to original trilogy Star Wars fans. It’s Han Solo in an Indiana Jones style adventure ( and what could be more fun than that).

4 out of 5 stars.

The first minute of Solo is exactly how a movie about the titular character should begin. But then it immediately lags, then even more so under ill-paced exposition. As soon Han goes solo though, it gains momentum. Then a short few minutes later as Woody Harrelson appears, things get rolling outright.

Alden Ehrenreich takes a bit of time to slide into Han’s scuffed boots, both onscreen and in our fan hearts. But when he does, it works wonderfully. He’s not the sexy gruff cynic Harrison Ford portrayed. No, he’s a “Kid,” who's got dreams. He’s a romantic. He’s wide-eyed, immature, and even petulant at times. But like Harrison’s portrayal, he’s arrogant, talented, goofy, jealous, easily embarrassed and will gladly spin a terrible lie. And oh yes… he can turn it on. Not at first, no… that’s really awkward ( more on that with Emilia). He’s not Harrison Ford by a long shot, but when given the chance later in the film, he makes a scene his own, and it’s HOT.

Unfortunately though, Alden is easily five inches shorter than 6’ 1” Harrison. And it’s glaringly obvious (especially to me, as I am quite a tall person). Sadly, Alden’s 1” platform 2”+ heel boots can only add so much. Otherwise, I’m satisfied with his portrayal. Alden’s a great actor, he had huge boots to fill, and I think he’s really been treated unfairly by the fans. Give the kid a chance, he might win you over.

Donald Glover IS Lando Calrissian though.  He’s sexy, sauve and even a bit silly ( in all the right ways… make no mistake).  I daresay Mr.Glover has taken Billy Dee William’s place in my heart as the epitome of Lando. Whether he’s coming on to Han, or Qi’ra or some unspecified alien species, he’s a pansexual on the level of Oberyn Martell from Game of Thrones. An arrogant playboy badass, who loves all the finest things. He is willing to enjoy everything life has to offer, and why not? It’s hard not to love him as a result. Lando movie, anyone?

Tobias Beckett is everything Han wants to be. Beckett is also in love with fellow crook Val, and his attachment to her is cemented firmly in a couple of scenes, which unlike the Han/Qi’ra scenes–have great chemistry. And Woody Harrelson’s portrayal of yet another grizzled mentor is stunning. I found him much more appealing than Harrelson’s equivalent character from Hunger Games. Though the mantel is starting to wear. Don’t get me wrong. I adore Woody Harrelson. His being in this film gave me a reason to think I might just like it. I’m just not sure I want to see him as yet another badass mentor after this.

When Thandie Newton appeared in Beloved back in 1998, I was an instant fan. I’d seen her before in a few other flicks, but she blew that one out of the water as the title character. Since then she had worked steadily in a number of critically acclaimed roles. I was absolutely thrilled to see her in this as Val. And utterly heartbroken that she was totally underused. When Val is onscreen, she overshadows everyone else, even Beckett. It’s a shame we don’t see more of her than we do. Boo!

Emilia Clarke as Qi’ra…Hmm.  She’s cute, charming, and tries her hand at swordplay here. But honestly, the Queen of Dragons is a poor fit. The original casting call was for anything other than yet another white brunette. And with amazing ladies like Tessa Thompson in the running, why oh why did we end up with Emilia? If not racism (God, I hope not); Ang’s answer: Think $$$, from Game of Thrones fans in theatre seats. I can think of no other reason. Her chemistry with Alden is tepid at best ( and any of that comes much, much later). I feel bad for Emilia here. I think she was miscast, and that tarnish will always stay with the fans. ( P.s. : the three adult heterosexual males I watched the movie with, were over-the-moon smitten with her. To each his own. I guess…)

On to the non-humans...

Joonas Suotamo as Chewbacca is physically brilliant. He’s stolen my heart as Chewie from the lovely Peter Mayhew (sorry Pete) over the last three movies. But honestly, we discover nothing new about Chewbacca in this. Zero. It’s rather unfortunate. I wish I could say more. But we learn more about Chewie in episode three than this. A missed opportunity. Sorry Chewie. For some reason Disney put your character in the doghouse here.

L3-37 is another definite weak spot in Solo. We have a snarky female droid (yay!) as a droid-rights advocate (cool!).  But it’s so completely overwrought. Only Lando’s constant eye rolls save this character from being as ridiculous as Jar Jar Binks. Which is another shame, because I felt she fills in the current canon equivalent of Lando’s copilot droid Vuffi Raa, from the EU/Legends novels from waaay back in the 1980’s, (interestingly they are both pilots, are both self-aware droids and have vaguely parallel fates) Some editing issues arise as far as L3′s character is concerned too. She’ll be leaning, casually watching,  while droids are being slaughtered in front of her, but only interferes with other robots later in the same scene? Why?? Were the first dead droids not good enough for her to save? It’s inconsistent, poor editing; and that really hurts the character. Sorry Phoebe Waller-Bridge, you did great job with what you had. I’m not sure that the script/editing was as good as you deserved.

The spaceship the Millennium Falcon is 100% a full character in this too. Without giving too much away, she represents her pilots as they sit at the helm. She’s treated with more respect - reverence even -  in this, than any other film. And I can say this is her movie as much as it is Han’s. Millennium Falcon fans, you are in for a treat!

And the bad guys...or one guy anyways....

Paul Bettany is chilling and utterly convincing as the gangster Dryden Vos. He also has much better chemistry with Qi’ra than Han.  I’m fairly certain this is mainly due to Paul’s astonishing acting ability.  He first came to my attention as the title character in the darkly funny UK crime film Gangster No.1. I was floored by him then and he’s still blowing me away, even as the rather challenging character Vision in the MCU. Bettany does not disappoint in Solo either. He took over this role with zero preparation, with the weight of replacing another respected actor at the last minute in an extremely troubled production. And the optics of having a white European actor taking over from an African-american are...ermm...not the best. He pulls it off, though. But I can’t help but wonder what Michael K Williams would have brought to the role. Vos is a soulless psychopath under Bettany, not unlike his character in Gangster No.1.  Would Williams have brought the tragic–almost romantic deep spirit and inner strength he brought to his gangster Chalky White in Boardwalk Empire to Vos instead? It’s rather sad we will never know.

I don’t think I can say much else about the other antagonist(s) without spoiling a bunch. But let’s just say...wow! Well done! Surprises and fan service all around!

There is something missing here too. We never see Han as an imperial pilot. Nor the promised Shakespeare-inspired comedic comic book characters that Ron Howard teased last fall.  These gems may be reserved for DVD releases, but I feel Han’s missing academy stint is definitely a gap in this story. And the movie lacks because of it.

Importantly, I do recommend seeing this in IMAX 2D as it is a very dark and muted film.

The usual amazing, special effects, costumes and sets we’ve come to expect from the Star Wars film franchise are all present here.  The styling is different from the previous films, as it takes place about halfway between Episode Three and Rogue One.  It’s neat to see the evolution of the Empire’s gear. 

And the easter eggs are everywhere; prequels, Rebels, Clone Wars, Star Tours ( the Disney Park ride), the comic books from the 1970′s and 80′s, the EU/Legends Han Solo novels by Brian Daley, the Lando Calrissian novels from the same era are especially referenced numerous times. Even the Indiana Jones franchise gets a significantly placed nod.

To say the least, the fan-service is strong with this one.

But not the Force. Not at all. None of that simple tricks and nonsense here at all.

Because I’m a pretty hard-core fan, I pre-bought two showings on initial release. The first time I saw Solo, I was unsure if I actually liked it, but it seemed to be a decent film.  The second viewing ( the same night) was an absolute joy. Times three and four were with different groups of adults, and they all had a blast. Five was with a group of 13 year old girls, and they all enjoyed it too.

So let’s call my rating of Solo then, 4 out of 5 stars. 

Honestly I don’t get the backlash against it.  Don’t take your Last Jedi hate out on this. It’s a fun ride with decent jokes and no space-boob-milk monsters—honest!

And if you think Solo offers nothing different, new, or imaginative. You are 99% correct...Remember, we got that full package of “different and innovative” in Last Jedi. If that’s your schtick, watch that one instead then.

Oh, and one more thing- that 1%?... two words:

Shower scene.

[rosierocks30]

Hidden: Ch. 19

Chapter 19: One Chance

(Natasha/Eveline)

Another week had gone by fast. Natasha or Eveline as most everyone here called her. She was busy doing Historia’s bed neatly. Her grandmother or Queen HIstoria had interrogated her the day after of the miscarriage she had. She had to explain why she was in the infirmary wing that night. 

(Flash back) 

Eveline was walking to the queen’s bedchamber. It was now morning. The doctor had insisted she stayed another day, but Eveline was stubborn. She thanked him and walked back to start her day. When the brunette got there, Historia was already having breakfast. 

“Good morning, Eveline. I hope you are feeling better. Caroline told me she found you bleeding from miscarrying your child. I’m so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine the pain you are going through. I want you to take a couple days off.” The queen said with a concerning tone. 

“Your majesty, I’m grateful for your kindness, but I must reject your request. I prefer to resume my work. Please...I need to keep myself distracted.” Eveline begged the queen. 

Historia frowned. She doesn’t want any of her staff or ladies in waiting to push themselves to work hard and forget to self care for themselves. Eveline is touched how her own grandmother was caring for others. 

“I see. Already then, have you eaten breakfast at least?” Her tone said motherly. Eve missed hearing her grandmother's motherly voice. It gave nostalgic feelings. Eveline shook her head to gesture a no. 

Historia used her foot to push the other chair a bit away from the table. “Come sit. If you want to work today, I need my handmaiden fed. This meal is too much for one person. I don’t mind sharing.” The blonde woman smiled at her. Eveline at first hesitated. 

The brunette slowly walked towards the empty chair to sit. She scooted the chair closer to the table. Her grey eyes stared at the food on the table. There were bacon, sausages, eggs, fruit pastries, toasts, orange juice and teas. To be honest, she had lost her appetite when the smell of food had hit her nose. Eve tried to conceal her nausea as she doesn’t want to be rude to the queen’s generosity in sharing her breakfast with her. While taking her time, Eve grabbed a plate to serve eggs and toast. The handmaiden nibbled her toast and eggs. The young woman wanted to prove she was capable of working today. 

The queen smiled as she saw her handmaiden eating breakfast. She needed to gain her strength. “Why haven’t you mentioned you were pregnant?” 

Eve paused and looked down at her food. The dark hair woman didn’t know she was carrying a child. Despise, Ymir told her in her dreams that she was with a child, but Eve didn’t believe it. Now, it was too late. 

“I didn’t know that I was pregnant.” Her tone was quiet. She remembered last night how scared and heartbroken Eve had felt. 

Historia sipped her tea and nodded from what Eveline said. “Does he know?” 

Eve glanced at the blonde woman and nodded her head. “Y-yes. I think he was devastated when I miscarried, but it doesn’t matter. We are not together anymore.” The last phrase had left her tongue feeling bitter. Eve still felt the pain of his action. 

HIstoria was alarmed at what made them end their relationship? Was Eren that devastated to break up with this poor woman? Relationships are difficult to maintain but they are worth it especially with the right person that is willing to get through the ups and downs. 

“Don’t tell me that Eren decided to ended the relationship with you all because of the miscarriage?” Historia was feeling upset. 

“No, no it was I who ended the relationship. I just can’t be with him not after what I saw that broke my heart.” Eve gently pushed the plate away from her. She was done eating. 

“What did he do that made you not want to be with him?” The queen was curious what Eren had done to hurt her. 

“He betrayed me by being unfaithful. I saw him with some woman while walking back to my room. That’s when I felt pain and loss of the baby that I didn’t know I was carrying.” Eve was fighting her tears. She doesn’t want to cry in front of her grandmother. It was difficult for her to talk about what had happened last night. 

Historia made a silent gasp. She carefully placed the tea cup on the saucer. “Really? That’s seemed out of his character, but I’m sorry for the pain you went through.” 

Eve wanted this conversation to end. Just talking about Eren had made her on the verge to cry. Her anger, sadness, and pain begin to overwhelm her again. 

“Your majesty, if I may be bold. May I be excused? I want to work to keep my mind on other important things.” Eve looked at the queen. 

The queen nodded in understanding and gave her approval. “Yes, of course. But if you’re not feeling well, please go rest. I will have Lady Janelle to take over.” 

Eve nodded then got up to go begin her day working. 

(End Flashback)

Eve was finishing organizing Historia’s clothes into colors for aesthetic purposes. Today has been a good day so far. She grabbed the dirty clothes and placed them into a basket. The dark haired woman felt a wave of nauseous all of sudden. Her hand pressed onto her lips to make sure she doesn’t throw up on the beautiful expensive rug. Her eyes looked all over to search for a safe place. She ran to where an opened window and leaned to vomit. 

Oh god is she catching a flu? Maybe it’s food poisoning. If it keeps happening, she might stop by the same doctor to diagnose her. Hopefully, it’s nothing. She wiped her mouth then went to the bathroom which is all the way on the other side of the chamber. Eve turned on the water from the sink to rinse her mouth to get rid the acid aftertaste of the vomit. 

After she was finished, the spy and handmaiden picked up the basket of dirty clothes to go give it to the staff that do laundry on the lower level of the palace. While walking to the laundry area, the female Ackerman spotted a familiar face.

“Hey Rick, you’re on your break?” She gave a warm smile to her friend. 

Rick smiled back at her. “Hey Eve, I see you have been busy.” He chuckled. 

“Yeah, these dirty clothes won’t pick up on their own.” She said jokingly. 

“So what do you plan doing around lunch? I’m going on break in half an hour. Wanna get out of this stuffy place to get lunch. Maybe some fresh air will do good for us.” He said. 

Eve was going to decline since not that long ago she was feeling ill and didn’t feel hungry. When Rick mentioned food, her stomach growled loud. She blushed embarrassedly. Looks like her appetite is back. 

“Yeah, sure. This place is driving me crazy anyways.” She chuckled. 

“Good! I’ll meet you at the gate in half an hour. See you soon.” Rick had a happy smile and waved goodbye to her as he walked away. Eve waved him goodbye as well. 

“Sounds good.” She watched him leaving then resume going towards the lower level. 

What both Rick and Eve didn’t realize was that a paired of green eyes observed them a bit further away from them. The figure was scoffed then walked away. 

Once an half hour had passed, Eve quickly walked through the halls until she was stopped by a blonde figure. She glanced at the figure to realize it was Zeke Jaeger, Eren’s older brother. 

“Ah, good afternoon, Miss Potts.” Zeke said with a friendly smile. 

Eve was at halt when she’s standing before the infamous Beast Titan shifter. Her grandfather had always rant how he hated that giant apeshit as he liked to call it. Both her grandparents told stories of what Zeke planned on doing to the Eldians for the greater good supposedly. Eren felt no hate nor love towards his older half sibling. The one thing he didn’t agree with his brother was the euthanization plan, but his plan was no better either. Both are extremists for the greater good of the Eldian people which it bothered her. 

“Good afternoon. Mr. Jaeger. Is there something that you need?” Eve used her acting skill to play the nice newbie that some staff and Jaegerists talked about in the palace. Heck even some templars gossiped about her. It felt like high school all over again. Only with a bunch of adults with fucked up plans and ambitions.  

“Oh no. I'm just wondering how the queen is doing lately? As her distant cousin, I am concerned for her health sometimes.” He said. 

“Her majesty is doing fine. I made sure she is properly taken care of.” She said with a meek tone.

“Ah I’m pleased that Eren found a good handmaiden for the queen. We need to have her in the best condition possible.” He said. 

This gave a trouble feeling for Eve, but kept her act in place. “Don’t worry. She will be in the best condition.” 

“Good, good.” He was pleased to hear. A group was heading towards them and both Zeke and Eve saw it was Yelena, Eren, and that blonde woman. Just seeing Eren and her close made Eve’s blood boil in anger. Of course, she was masking her true emotions. What kind of spy is she if Eve can’t contain her emotions? She was an S.H.I.E.L.D agent before ending up in the past. The woman from the future had promised to herself that she’ll do whatever it takes to survive this era and get back home. After all, maybe in the meantime the brunette could begin secretly working on a cure for the Eldians to be officially free from the curse of Ymir.  

So much work to do, but she is a Stark. This kind of challenge will keep her mind occupied. Eve didn’t make eye contact with Eren as it’s awkward for her to be around him and that slut in the same room as her. 

“Please excuse me, but my lunch break has just started. I have someone watching for me.” The heiress said. 

Eren finally said something. “Where will you be? I’m sure Queen Historia had let you eat in her chamber.” 

Of course, he has to be noisy about her business. It doesn’t matter anymore. He can’t be the overprotective boyfriend when he fucked things up between them. 

“Eren, why all of sudden you wanted to know a handmaiden like her own business?” The same blonde who Eve saw her with Eren a week ago. She wanted to leave now before she snapped and caused a bloody scene. 

“Because she’s new around here. Plus, I brought her and the other man to work here.” He said annoyingly. 

The blonde woman rolled her eyes then trying to cling around his bicep. Eve literally tried to stay cool. She may have ended things with Eren but her feelings have not gone away. The heiress itched to  teach this bitch a lesson on not to pissed off a female Ackerman. Deep in her subconscious, her titan screams wanting to tear it’s competitions into shreds. 

We must destroy our obstacle. She is touching what’s ours. 

Shut up. She can have him. I don’t need him. 

Lies! Who are you fooling, you insolent?

Have you forgotten what he did? We lose our child from the hurt and distress. Why should we be with him if he doesn’t value our love? 

Our mate...didn’t mean too. He said it was to protect us. He loves us. 

Oh for goodness sake! I’m not going to have this argument with you. He made his choice and I won’t let myself be a victim. 

Our offspring needs her father. 

What are you talking about? Do you remember the miscarriage? There’s no offspring. Not anymore. 

You, stupid human. All those nauseous from having sensitive senses are still there because you are still carrying his offspring. Well, one of them. Your ancestor, Ymir was not lying, you are carrying a strong seed. It’s painful to lose another potential offspring, but that’s how life goes. Only the strongest survive in this fucked up world. You are an example of surviving the ordeal you had gone through as a child once. 

We don’t ever speak about that. Understand. After lunch, I’ll go to the doctor to have a check up. Maybe you are wrong about me still being pregnant. 

I am never wrong, Hostess. 

Outside of her mind. Eve was in a trance. Until Zeke snapped her out of it. 

“Miss Potts? Are you alright?” Zeke said. 

“Huh? Oh sorry I was contemplating on which outfits the queen will wear for the charity ball tonight.” She quickly came up with an explanation. Why was her Titan being a pain in the ass? Eve doesn’t want to have her hopes up if she was still pregnant. 

“Ah yes, the ball. I forgot it’s tonight.” Zeke said. “You will attend the ball, right?”

“Um, I don’t know. I’m not a big fan of parties.” Eve is trying to make this conversation short. 

“Ah, I see. But you haven’t been this ball. I’m sure the queen would want her handmaiden to have fun.” Zeke was being persistent. 

“If the queen wants me to go then I see no harm in attending.” She sighed. 

“Excellent! Well, we’ll see you tonight.” Zeke said excitedly. 

“I’ll see you all tonight at the ball then. My lunch date is waiting for me.” Eve gave a sly smile. She glanced a bit to see Eren’s jaw became tight. The dark haired woman turned around and walked towards the entrance of the palace to meet Rick at the gate. 

You have angered our mate, Hostess. 

Have I? That’s not my problem. 

You foolish girl. Don’t expect me to save your skin when our mate confronts us. 

Let me be clear. Eren is not our mate. Will never be our mate. He lost that chance. 

How will you raise the growing offspring? She needs a father just as much as she needs a mother. 

I’m a modern day woman. I can survive being a single mother if I’m still pregnant. 

You are a prideful fool. Humph. 

Eve rolled her eyes being irritated and felt headaches appearing. She saw Rick waiting for her. The heiress smiled at him then both walked to the plaza of the city. Right now she will have a nice normal lunch with her friend. Later, if the queen allows it; she will see the doctor if her titan was right about her still being pregnant. 

(Mikasa)

Ever since that day Mikasa’s titan appeared to Reiner, it had become a bit awkward for the both of them. Mikasa felt so embarrassed and upset that her titan took over her. She felt bad to make Reiner concerned over her. Mikasa just needs some time to figure how to confront him without humiliation from her titan. 

The Hizuru government had responded to their plea. Lady Kiyomi, the ambassador and Mikasa’s distant relative on her mother’s side, wanted to have a meeting as kins. Mikasa agreed to meet alone with her kin.

“Mikasa, my dear girl. It’s good to see you.” The ambassador of Hizuru greeted her long lost kin. 

Mikasa had learnt a little bit of Hizuran customs to at least properly greet the Azumabito ambassador. 

The Ackerman bowed respectfully to her elder kin. Lady Kiyomi bowed back with a smile. 

“Hello Ambassador Azumabito, it’s good to see you too.” Mikasa said. 

“My dear, I’m pleased you have remembered some of the customs I taught you.” Lady Kiyomi went to sit down on a sofa chair. 

Mikasa followed her lead as well to make herself comfortable. “Yes, I remembered how my mother used to tell me to respect your elders; it shows my character.” 

“Ah, you’re mother was a wise woman.” The elder woman smiled. “Since we are now here. I will provide whatever resource you and your allies need, but I do have one condition.”

Mikasa raised her eyebrow curiously. “What condition would that be?” 

Lady Kiyomi gestured her hand at the man standing beside her. The man who looked like her bodyguard, handed her a folder. She grabbed the folder to place it on the coffee table and slide towards Mikasa. 

“This document is for you agreeing to be Hizuru’s heir to the once great throne. Besides, I’m asking you to be our rightful Empress. You have Azumabito blood in your veins. You can rule.” The ambassador encouraged her. 

Mikasa was reading the document. It’s a good thing it’s in Eldians since Mikasa barely knows a few words in Hizuran. The Eldian-Hizuran woman gasped at what her kin had said. 

“You’re asking me to take the throne that had been empty for a century? Won’t the people of Hizuru protest to have some foreign ruling over them? This request is just too much. I’m just a soldier from Paradis who wants to protect the people who don’t have a voice. I am tired of this endless war and hatred both sides are doing. I don’t think I’m qualified to be a leader and lead a nation…” Mikasa said. A part of her felt scared that she’ll screw up as a ruler. 

“Mikasa, my dearest...the people of Hizuru will be rejoiced that their long lost monarch will take the throne as Empress. The throne was empty because we the Hizuran prayed our lost  prince’s or his descendants will one day take back their birthright as sovereign rulers. You may not believe in yourself, but I see so much potential in you. I have the heart of a warrioress who fights for humanity. You seeing this pointless conflict between the Eldians vs the world isn’t bringing anyone’s well being. Children were raised to be soldiers or to just hate a certain group that had no fault for being different. With you as our Empress, you will have the power to help your friends and allies. The great rulers from history have one thing in common.” Kiyomi said. 

“What is it?” Mikasa glanced at her kin. 

“They will protect and fight for what’s right and see each party is at fault in a conflict; but also see there are some innocence  and monsters in each party.” Lady Kiyomi shared her wisdom to her younger kin. 

“I see...but I’m curious. Why aren’t you ruling? You’re also an Azumabito. Should it make sense since you become the Empress?” Mikasa had wondered why isn’t she the one ruling. 

The elder woman chuckled. “Oh my dearest, I may be Azumabito, but I’m not direct descent from the Crown Prince Hirito. I’m one of the descendants of his brothers. You are from bloodline. When the Emperor became devastated that his first born son was trapped on the island from King Karol’s order, he shocked our nation that he’ll be the last Emperor until one day his first born or his descendants claimed the throne. At first my ancestor felt injustice for not being named as heir, but he obeyed his father’s wishes and made sure the nation had council members to run the country.” The ambassador explained. 

Mikasa was taking all this information. She sighed as her headaches began to appear which she was used to yet they still annoyed her. 

“I understand..so if I accept this role; will I have the power to protect my friends and their innocence?” The young Ackerman said. 

“Correct.” Kiyomi confirmed. 

“Alright, I will accept your request but I do have one condition as well.” She said. 

“Of course, I’m listening.” The older woman smiled. 

“I will keep my surname. I’m not saying to disregard my mother’s last name. I want to hyphen both my parents' surnames until my children will pick which last name they want to inherit as they become older. My other kin from my father’s side and I had talked about reviving the Ackerman clan that once was a protector to the Paradisian royal family. We’re the last three in the world.” Mikasa said. 

“Three? There's another Ackerman?” This brought Kiyomi’s attention. 

“Yes, Captain Levi and Queen Historia recently had their son born into this world.” She said. 

“This is shocking news. A royal Ackerman. Well two if you include yourself.” The Azumabito elder chuckled. 

“Still I didn’t know these two were lovers.” She continued. 

“Yeah, we were all surprised that both of them got married and had a child together. They may not act like a couple publicly for many reasons, but in closed doors they really love each other. I haven’t seen Levi smile only when Historia was around. That should have been one of the signs. I’m happy for them. They deserve some happiness in their lives.” Mikasa said with a soft smile appearing on her lips. 

Lady Kiyomi nodded. “Love is powerful. It can motivate someone to protect or to destroy in the name of love.”

Mikasa agreed with her since at one point she was in love with Eren that motivated her to be there for him no matter what. Even deep down she knew he had never felt the same feelings as she had done.  Mikasa grabbed the pen and hovered on the sign here line. 

“So it’s a deal?” The raven haired beauty stared into her estranged relative’s eyes. 

Kiyomi nodded as she watched Mikasa finally sign her name on the paper. “It’s a deal, my dear Empress.” 

This is it. Mikasa had agreed to be the sovereign ruler of Hizuru in order to protect those she loved and have a bright future for the next generation. 

After they finished talking about important business, both of them talked casually to resume the bond that Mikasa had wanted to know more of her mother’s heritage. As hours went by, Mikasa had left the ship where Ambassador Kiyomi resided temporarily due to the battle  outside of Liberio city limit against templars’ soldiers. The good news they won the battle from inside Liberio and pushed the frontline of the enemies out of the city. Her lover, Commander Reiner Braun ordered the city to have barricades and other towns and cities that won too. He may be here commanding this small part of the army, but with better communication he was able to lead the soldiers of Marley and other nations that Marleyan soldiers were deployed. 

Annie had surprised everyone with her creation of better equipment to send longer distance communication. Thanks to her trip with Armin to the States, Annie had learnt so much of the advanced technologies that existed. Mikasa felt a bit guilty for assuming Annie was just a reserved titan shifter who is good at kicking anyone’s ass. The blonde Female Titan shifter was a lowkey nerd who likes to learn modern technologies to improve this side of the world. Mikasa finally understood that both Armin and Annie have some things in common. 

This whole week was victorious for this side of the war. Reiner was a good leader whether he doesn’t think so. The raven haired assassin thought about to finally confront Reiner since the day her titan made an appearance. Besides, she needed to tell him and the rest that they have an ally with Hizuru but also mention in order to gain their alliance; Mikasa will take the throne. 

She walked on the empty streets. Kiyomi had insisted on sending guards for her as Mikasa had accepted to be Hizuran Empress. Of course once the war is over, the female Ackerman will have a coronation ceremony to be officially crowned as their sovereign Empress. She spotted some soldiers from Marley's army. This city most of them already were familiar with her so Mikasa doesn’t have to worry of being shot or harassed. 

Behind her, two guards walking to keep up with her pace. She was annoyed to have bodyguards. Can you believe it? An Ackerman needing bodyguards? Mikasa reached the entrance of the military base. One of the soldiers greeted her and opened the gate. She gestured to her bodyguards to follow her. When she entered the Headquarters, she searched for Reiner until one of the soldiers told her he was in an important meeting. She sighed but understood not to disturb him. 

Mikasa decided to go to his office and wait for him. She told the guards to give some privacy. They bow to her and distance themselves from her. The uncrowned empress sat on Reiner’s big chair. She sees he had left his jacket on the chair. Mikasa grabbed it to inhale his scent. He smelled like pinecones and his favorite aftershave. While she was busy in her own world, the door opened to reveal Reiner walking into his office. Once he closed the door, he was startled to see his lover on his chair nuzzling and inhaling his jacket.  

“Oh shit Mikasa! I didn’t see you there. Are you sniffing my jacket?” Reiner looked at what Mikasa was doing. 

Mikasa peeked to see Reiner standing with a surprised expression. She blushed embarrassingly from being caught red handed from inhaling the scent of his jacket. 

“Um...no. I was just admiring the material of the jacket.” She gets up to neatly place the jacket how he left it. Oh god, he’ll think she’s some weirdo. Maybe it’s best to leave before she does any more strange behaviors again. Her titan is having the time of her life laughing from how flushed Mikasa’s face is. 

“I’ll just leave. I’m sorry.” She walked past him, but he grabbed her forearm to stop her leaving. 

“Wait Mikasa. Don’t leave please...can we talk? I missed you. I try to give you space but sometimes it hurts you have been avoiding me all week.” His voice was gentle. Mikasa felt her heart pounding from the sound of him begging to talk to her. She has missed him all week too. Her stupid pride made her difficult to confront him earlier. She didn’t mean to hurt him. A part of her is scared he’ll reject her because she's a monster. 

She stayed still without saying much. Reiner gently pulled her to him as his arms wrapped around her to hold her from behind. His chin rested on her shoulder. Mikasa can feel his breath on her ear. Reiner was waiting for her to say anything, but he sighed. He broke the silence. 

“Is this about that night when Styx appeared?” Reiner whispered. 

Mikasa’s body became tense from him mentioning her titan’s name. The blonde man figured this is one of the reasons his girlfriend was avoiding him. 

“Mikasa, I want to hear it from you on why you’re avoiding me? I promise this won’t change this between us. I love you. I love all of you including your titan.” He continued whispering to her ear. It felt sweet to her ear the way he should affection to her. Her grey eyes closed tightly as tears formed and slipped down. Why is this so hard to say to him? Is her fear that great? The raven beauty took a deep breath and used the courage to speak. 

“I was afraid...that you will not treat me the same and see me as a monster, a true devil. Just like the insults my fellow Paradis Eldians were called as. I was already heartbroken once; I don’t want to go through again but this time with you. Whenever we spend time together, my walls from both my heart and mind crumble to let you in. I grew to fall for you until I know for sure I am in love with you.” Her tone was soft. 

Reiner leaned to give feather-like kisses on her neck. “Mikasa, my beautiful strong warrioress, don’t ever say, feel, or see yourself as a monster. You are a pure hearted woman who sees good in others. I admired the way you see the world. I was envious at one point. I still see you as my future wife and mother of my children. Besides, Styx is very intriguing. I want to get to know her too. Will you allow that? For you to be one hundred percent of  yourself? She is part of you and you’re part of her.” 

Mikasa slowly turned around to face him. She had her arms wrapped around his neck. Reiner smiled at her while she leaned in to kiss him deeply with passion. Both lovers become lost into their heated make out session. Mikasa gently pushed him to his big chair for him to sit. She climbed on to his lap to straddle comfortably. Their kiss hasn’t been broken during this. Her fingers quickly unbuttoning his white shirt. Their body temperatures rise with their desire and lust for each other. 

Reiner takes off her tank top by lifting up then tosses it to the wooden floor. Mikasa let out a soft moan when Reiner began flicking his tongue on her nipples. The assassin pressed herself down to feel his bulge becoming hard as she grind slow. He pants hard from his cock throbbing. The Commander-in-chief of Marley's army resumed being attentive on her hard perky nipples. He gave sloppy kisses between the valley of her breasts then went further down to her stomach which arched her back from the pleasure Mikasa was receiving. Reiner lifted her up so he could get up from the chair and place her on the desk. Mikasa quickly tried to undo her pants to kick them off. The urge of wanting him to be inside her had increased. 

Finally she was free from her pants and panties. Now Mikasa focuses on undoing Reiner’s pants. When she saw his hard cock pop out from his pants and briefs, the raven haired beauty pressed her thumb on the tip to gently massage. She could hear Reiner growled from the pleasure he was receiving. She smirked watching him panting hard as her hand wrapped around his length to slowly pump it. 

Mikasa kisses his neck up to his ear to nibble the earlobe. Reiner began to spread her legs wide and pushed her laying on his desk which she let go of his cock. She waited to feel his cock inserting into her wet hole. Instead, his tongue licked slowly on her clitoris. She closed her eyes to let the blissful intense pleasure kick in. Her moans became erotic and a bit loud. Quickly, she gasped while clapping her hand on to her mouth to be quiet. That would be so embarrassing if anyone passed by Reiner’s office to hear her moans.

On the other hand, Reiner was too zoned out from eating her out. He felt pride in himself for making his girl moaning loud because of him. While he continues sucking her clit, the female Ackerman grips on his golden hair roughly from being lost into ecstasy. 

“Mmm R-reiner….I-I n-need y-you.” She barely could form a sentence to speak. 

He chuckled deeply then pulled away from her sensitive area to level eyed her. He held her chin softly to take in the time to admire her flushed face that he caused. 

“How bad do you need me, Mikasa?” His tone was husky and rough. 

She let out a growl. “Reiner don’t tease me. I want you now.” Her eyes are glowing silver. Of course, Reiner smirked and kissed her passionately. 

“Your wish is my command, baby.” Finally, he positioned his cock hovering on her entrance and thrust it into her with a bit roughness. Mikasa rolled her eyes of how it felt so great of his cock stretching her walls. 

“Ahhhh y-yes, R-reiner!” She yelped. 

Her legs automatically wrapped around his waist as Reiner thrusted into her hard and fast. The desk made a screeching noise. Mikasa listened to him talking in very explicit words. She blushed and moaned. He was so close to reaching his climax. 

“I’m so close, baby..” He grunt as his thrusting increased faster. 

She nodded while feeling her orgasm being near too. Both moan rhythmically together as their orgasms made them cum. Mikasa felt the familiar warmth from Reiner filling up her womb. Since a month had passed of them being together, Mikasa hasn’t felt any symptoms of expecting yet. She wasn’t in a rush at the moment, but with him having almost a year left; she wanted at least to have something a part of him. Mikasa doesn’t know what she’ll do when he dies. She knew what she was getting herself into, but the fear losing him was already planted in her mind. The raven haired future empress wants to give her boyfriend the best moments he’ll have before he passed away.  

After they came, Reiner glanced at his girlfriend to see her crying. He kissed her forehead and cradled her with love and compassion. “Hey, don’t cry. Shhhh what’s wrong, beautiful.” He coos her. 

Mikasa cupped her hands on his face to kiss his lips. “I know what we’re getting ourselves into, but it's still scary that soon I would lose you. I selfishly want us to grow old and be there for the memories we won’t get the chance to share together.” 

Reiner uses his thumb to caress her cheek and kiss her temple spots. “I’m sorry, I will cause you heartache when I leave this world, but I want to say thank you for giving me joy and peace I haven't felt since I was a small child. I’m glad that I have the chance to know you, Mikasa Ackerman. If we don’t have a child by then it’s alright because you had already made me a happy man. This is the one thing I will never regret was to love you. I understand that it would be better if I have the chance to grow old with you. Our children grow up in a peaceful world with their own children. We would smile and hold each other while watching the sun sets.” 

Hearing his preferred ideal dream had made Mikasa sobbing. How much did she want that too? Sadly, she would do all that alone without him by her side. If the Hizuru government forces her to marry someone else, she will not hesitate to reject the idea. Her heart, body, mind, and soul belongs to Reiner Brauns. His child or children will sit on the throne after her. Mikasa was capable of ambition when it’s convenient to her. 

“I don’t regret loving you as well, Reiner. We may have once been just comrades then enemies and now lovers. You have made me the happiest woman. I will give you a child because I prefer any child of mine from you to sit on the throne instead of some man’s child.” Mikasa said. 

Reiner looked at her confused. “Mikasa, what do you mean sitting on a throne? What I know Paradis has Historia as the queen.”

“That’s the thing I came here earlier. I finally got an alliance with Hizuru. They will assist us as long I order them as their Empress. That was the deal.” Mikasa waited for him to process. 

“So you are now Hizuru’s Empress? I didn’t know you have some royal blood in you.” Reiner was still taking all in. He doesn’t know how to feel, but he knows there’s no negativity in him of how he felt about his girlfriend being a ruler.

“I found out on my mother’s side, she was a direct descendant of the Crowned Prince Hirito of the Azumabito clan. Ambassador Kiyomi Azumabito told me of my family’s origins.” Mikasa showed him her tattoo of the Azumabito clan sigil on her arm. 

“This is to prove I am the last living descendant of the trapped prince. With me being the Empress, I’ll have enough resources to help win us the war. We’ll bring peace and harmony.” Reiner stared at the tattoo. He let out a smile and kissed her forehead. 

“Who would have thought of us changing the world?” He chuckled. Mikasa smiled and nuzzled against his bare chest. 

“Yeah who would’ve thought.” She mumbled. 

“That explained why I saw two Hizuran men glaring at me and not allowing me to enter into my office until I told them I am the Commander and this is my office.” He gave a hearty laugh. Mikasa groaned from thinking she needed to have a talk with her bodyguards about the do’s and the don'ts.

“I’m sorry about that. They are my bodyguards as it’s a protocol for my safety which it flabbergasted me they forgot I’m a trained soldier and an Ackerman.” She said. 

“Oh that’s hilarious; you need bodyguards? I’ll have one of the privates to find them a room so they can rest when they need to.” Reiner wipes his tears from laughing. 

“Thank you that would be appreciative.” She smiled and kissed him tenderly. 

“Of course anything for you, my darling.” He grinned. Mikasa blushed from giving her an affectionate nickname. 

“So Empress Mikasa. That has a nice tone to it.” Reiner said. 

“Mhm it’s Empress Mikasa Ackerman of the Azumabito clan. Reiner, will you willingly become my Prince consort if the war was over before your deadline? So basically, will you marry me, Reiner Braun?”  Mikasa asked. 

“I don’t know how long this war will be over. We may be winning on this side, but we still have to defeat them in Paradis Isle. We don’t need to wait for marriage. We can get married. I want to die as your husband. So, yes. I will marry you, Mikasa Ackerman.” He smiled. 

Mikasa hugged him while kissing him with joy. “Tomorrow, we’ll go to Ambassador Kiyomi to have us be married unless you have a Marley’s custom that you want us to do?” 

“Not in particular we don’t. I don’t care how we get married as long as it's you.” He said. 

“Alright that’s good to know. Let’s put back our clothes. I need to talk to Armin and Annie so they can send the news to the Assassins and tell the troops about our alliance with Hizuru” She said. Reiner agreed and started to button his clothes. Mikasa had to pick up hers and put it on. Once they were fully dressed and looked presentable, both walked out of the office. Mikasa realized both her guards were standing by the door the whole time. 

“Oh my god, how long have you two stand here?” Mikasa felt red from thinking they had heard her sounds. 

One of them answered. “A long time, my empress.” 

Mikasa was so embarrassed. Reiner felt a bit shy but chuckled seeing Mikasa’s face red. “I- please pretend you didn’t hear anything.” 

“As you wish, Empress.” The other one said. 

Mikasa sighed and walked along with Reiner while the other two followed them. 

(Eve)

Eve was at a nice café with Rick enjoying their lunch break. Both friends were laughing and talking carefree. This is what she needs to make her day. Just feeling normal and herself. Back at the palace, Natasha was walking on eggshells to make sure no danger of being harmed or discovered as a spy. 

“Seriously this guy was weird. He stared at me then at you.” Rick said. 

“Rick, that’s Yelena. She’s a woman.” Eve laughed from her friend assuming Yelena was a man. 

“What?! Really? I thought she was a guy. That explained why she glared at me often.” He chuckled embarrassingly. 

“You’ll be fine. She’s too occupied giving puppy love to Zeke. She barely acknowledges your existence.” The brunette sipping chamomile tea. 

“True.” He grinned. 

“So, Eve...what’s going on with you and Eren?” He asked boldly. 

The handmaiden paused from sipping and set down her teacup to have his full attention. “We are on break until things are steady enough for us to focus on our relationship.” Her tone sounded very diplomatic. 

Rick feels it's more than a break, but the way she said it felt she doesn’t want to talk about it. “Ah ok that’s understandable. As long you guys are fine with it.” 

“Yeah…” She resumed sipping her tea. “So, I heard there’s a charity ball tonight. The queen might force me to go to have fun, but wanna go together? I will feel weird and awkward around strangers.” Eve was not into going balls or social events. Her grandmother Pepper Stark had dragged her to many events to represent as the Stark Industries heiress. She was never a people person. What had made her go through it was drinking to tolerate most of the people’s bullshit.  

“Ah, Eve I would have gone with you but I asked this girl who I like.” Rick blushed when he was thinking of the girl he met at the palace.

“Really? Oh my god! That’s great. Who is she? Maybe I have seen her.” She said excitedly. 

“Her name is Maggie. She worked in the laundry section.” He said. 

Eve trying to remember who this Maggie is. “Ohhhh I met her a few times. She’s a nice person. I’m glad you found someone.” 

“Yeah, she’s so cute, but you can join us at the ball. Maybe this time you will have a great time. It’s a masquerade ball so no one will know who you are if you embarrassed yourself.” He said jokingly. 

Eve made a dramatic gasp. “Excuse me, I never embarrassed myself. Thank you very much.” She said with confidence. 

“Pfft ok.” He was skeptical. “We should start heading back.” 

“Oh right, let’s go before we get into trouble.” She gets up and uses the currency to pay for her meal. Rick stopped her. “I don’t mind paying for us.” 

“It’s fine, I can pay for my meals.” She said, insisting. 

“I know but I invited you for lunch.” He pointed out. 

“Fine, but next lunch; I will pay for our meal and bring Maggie with you too.” She said. 

Rick nodded while placing his money on the table. “Alright I will.” 

After the meal was paid, both head back to the palace to their work. Eve was walking into the tea room to see Historia alone reading a nice thick book. The dark haired woman bows to the queen. “Your Majesty.” 

Historia glanced to see it was her handmaiden. “Oh Eveline! Did you have a wonderful lunch?” She said. 

“I did, your grace. I hope you had a good lunch as well.” Eve smiled. 

“I have and thank you. So, I don’t know if you have heard, but tonight there’s a charity ball. So tonight I am giving you the night off so you can attend to have fun.”  Historia was in a chirpy mood. 

“Oh, yeah I will go since my friend will go.” Eve said. 

“That’s wonderful to hear! Do you have anything to wear?” The queen said. 

“No, but I can ask a friend of mine to let me borrow something to wear.” Eve doesn’t know what to wear. She’ll try to ask one of the ladies to burrow one of their outfits.

“Oh no, don’t worry about that. I will let you borrow from my wardrobe. Come let’s go pick out dresses for the ball. This will be fun.” Historia grabbed Eve’s arm to drag her to the queen’s chamber. 

Eve didn’t get the chance to kindly reject as she was inside the bedroom of the queen’s wing. She watched Historia open her wardrobe to check which dress will look perfect for her. 

“Let’s see. What do we have here for you to look drop dead gorgeous.” Historia pulled out a few dresses for Eve to try it on. 

“Let’s start these first and we’ll see how it goes.” The queen said. 

Eve nodded while picking the champagne color dress with embroidery of diamonds. The dress was silky and long but there’s a slit on both sides. The sleeves were long but split to look flowy like a cape. The material fabrics on the sleeves are transparent golden-tan. The only thing was it was too scandalous to wear on this island.

“Your grace, where did you find this gown? It looks too modern and very revealing.” Eve asked.  

“Oh, one of the foreigners gave me a gift. He said it’s the latest fashion from the other side of the world. It’s really too much for my taste but I didn’t want to offend the man.” Historia explained. 

“I think I want to try it on. Someone has to be brave to start a fashion trend.” Eve gave her infamous smirk as she went to the fitting area. 

Eve started to undress her current clothes then put on the gown. The only thing she struggled was zipping the back so she came out of the fitting area. 

“Your Majesty, could you please zip up the dress for me?” She showed her back to the queen. 

Historia nodded and went to zipped up the dress. Finally, Eve adjusted a bit. Historia gasped excitedly. 

“Oh my goodness. You look stunning! You’ll be the catch of the ball. You should wear it.” Historia encourages her handmaiden. 

Eve admired being praised by her grandmother. She blushed shyly which was unusual for her. “Thanks. I think I will take this one.” 

“Oh you can wear these emerald studs earrings I have. With your ring, it will look perfect for you. Now, let’s find a pair of heels to go with the outfit and a mask. After all it’s a masquerade ball.” The queen gave a smirk. Eve smiled in agreeing. 

By the time they finished finding outfits for tonight's ball, Eve left the chamber to go talk to the doctor. As she entered the hospital wing of the palace, the doctor was busy attending a patient who had a head injury. Eve patiently waited on a chair. Once the doctor finished attending the other, he turned around to see her. 

“Ah Miss Potts! How are you feeling? Is there something bothering you for me to take a look?” He said. 

“Right now, I’m well, but for a week I have been feeling nauseous and the smell like food has triggered. I have been vomiting random moments. I feel better after I did that. So is it possible to still be pregnant even thought I just had a miscarriage? Or is this some aftermath of miscarrying?” She said. 

“I see, that should be impossible unless you were carrying twins and one of them didn’t survive. Come to the bed and I will check by using the ultrasound machine.” He gestured to her to lie on an empty bed. 

The dark haired woman goes lay down and lifts her blouse to expose her belly while the doctor sets up the machine and squeezes the bottle of cool gel on her skin. Then he presses the rod that’s connected to the machine to massage on her belly to find anything on the screen. 

On the screen he could see a small circle. He turned on the heart beating sound. “Well, I was right. It’s a miracle this baby had survived the miscarriage, but unfortunately it’s twin didn’t. I suggested you have to be careful from now on. Even though the whole pregnancy you should be cautious but during your first trimester is where normal miscarriages occur. Get some rest and eat and hydrate well for your and the baby’s sake.” He said. 

Eve was in trance listening to the heartbeat. It was loud and strong just like Ymir and her titan said. 

I told you so

Shut up! 

Hehehe

She could hear her titan laugh in joy for being right. Eve can’t believe her baby is still alive and growing. This is a second chance to try to be optimistic about her child. After checking everything is well so far, the doctor gave her prenatal vitamins. 

“Alright, I want to see you here next month.” the doctor wrote a reminder on a paper then handed to her. She took it and nodded. 

“I will and thanks for everything.” She smiled and left the wing. 

Eve walked down the hallways until she was stopped by Eren. She frowned seeing him blocking her path. “Yes? May I help you?” Her tone was friendly towards him. 

“Natasha, why were you coming out of the hospital wing? Are you ok?” Eren was concerned for her health especially when he found out of the miscarriage. 

Eve was about to say something snarking, but her titan won’t stop talking. 

Tell him! He must know. 

I- don’t 

Don’t be stupid! This isn’t the time to show your pride. He needs to know we’re still carrying his offspring. Our mate deserves to know.

I don’t know….I can’t. I don’t want to get hurt again. I don’t want him to hurt the baby. 

Our mate will never do such a thing! He will adore her. He still adores you. Why can you see that, you stupid child?!

Ok enough with the name calling. Can you just leave me be for today?

No, until you tell him right now.

Ugh, you’re such a bitch. 

“Eve?” Eren trying to get her snap out of her trance. 

“I’m still pregnant.” Eve was snapped back to focus on Eren. She realized what had come out of her lips and gasped. Oh great she blurted out to him. 

“Wait what? Eve, is this a joke?” Eren doesn't know how to take this revelation news. 

The brunette Ackerman sighed. “This isn’t a joke, Eren. I was seeing the doctor because I still had symptoms from the pregnancy after I miscarried the baby. Apparently, I was carrying twins, but one of them didn’t survive. So that’s why I’m still pregnant. So yeah, you’re gonna be a dad.” 

Eren looked at her then he hugged her. “This is the best news I ever had. Eve, let’s get married. Our child deserves to be raised by us.” 

Eve would have agreed if it weren’t his betrayal from a week ago. She shook her head and pushed him away. “No, how can I be married to you when you broke my heart.” 

She can feel tears forming. “Don’t you understand seeing you with that whore made me distressed! I love you so much that you, Eren Jaeger, made me feel my soul was ripped away.” 

Eren felt the guilt from causing her pain. He really didn’t mean it to hurt her again. He wanted to protect her. He slowly goes towards her. “You’re right. What I did was terrible and I’m so sorry for hurting you. Natasha, I love you. No woman will have my heart but you. I want you. Only you. You’re my future. Our baby is my future. I will figure out to end this war and bring peace for both of you. Our growing family is my first priority. Please, give me the chance to make up to you.” 

“It’s not that simple. Every time I’m with you, all I can see is her moaning with you. Just imagine you being in my shoes? You would feel crushed too.” She cried while confronting him how she felt.  

Eren holds her again to calm her down for the sake of the baby and her. “I know I know. I’m sorry I don’t know what I was thinking. You’re the only woman I love. Natasha please try to be calm for both of your sake.” He whispers to her ear then kisses her neck. 

Natasha at first tried to free herself from his grip, but gave up as he continued whispering comforting words. She stopped and let him hold her. “One more chance, please.” Eren begged. 

She was scared to give him that chance. Will she be a fool for giving him that opportunity to make amends? Eve took a deep breath and looked into his eyes with courage to give her answer. 

“Don’t make me regret it, Eren. I will give you one more chance because my love for you is too strong. But this doesn’t mean I forgive you yet. Don’t expect me to show affection until I know for sure you have earned it. We’ll have to be a team when our child is born. Right now, I need to go change for the ball so please let me go.” Eve said. 

Eren nodded to her and one last time he kissed her forehead. “Thank you. I really don’t deserve you.” He mumbled. 

Eve didn’t bother to reply to his comment. She nodded while feeling his warm lips onto her forehead. 

“I’ll see you later. I need to go.” She said and walked away to leave him alone. 

Somewhere hiding in the corners of the hallways, a blonde figure listening to their conversations. Zeke frowned from knowing his little brother is going to be a father soon. This is not going well with his plans. Zeke quietly walked away to make sure he was unseen to have a private meeting with a few important people. 

A/N: So what do you guys think? Enjoy this chapter.

[lady-plantagenet]

A Bygone Era - Chapter 4

A fictionalised account of the life of Isabel Neville told through the eyes of those who knew her and herself.

Points of view written so far include Anne Beauchamp, Anne Neville, George Duke of Clarence and Isabel Neville herself

25th April 1469

High up and far-removed from the soothing slosh of a now fully thawed thames and the bustle of the city street’s mercers, sat the kingmaker’s women. The mahogany panels of the solar were warmed by ribbons of newborn saffron light. It now piercing through the stained glass windows threw a rainbow at the gold-adorned hems of the ladies’ gowns, setting them alight like embers. Queen Elizabeth sat above them all on a heavy dark chair propped upon the highest dias Isabel had ever seen. She was like a Heléne on her throne at Troy now gladly rinsed of her previous marriage to Sparta. The lovely curves of her rosy cheeks were raised in concentration as she led them all in the honourable practice of sewing shirts for the peasantry.

Isabel smirked at how much straighter her stitches were and how much nimbler her fingers worked through the countless linen shirts. Her mother from whom she had inherited her craft had, like her, finished ten, little Anne six and the Queen four. Perchance, it is true what they say about lineage and the gifts that come with it.

Besides her was sat the queen’s sister Anne, now Viscountess Bourchier, soon to be Countess of Essex, but never to truly be Isabel’s cousin-in-law. Not nearly as lovely as the Woodville Queen, but the way her long fingers would strum the strings of the psaltrey, was so light that the air seemed filled with each delicate twang.

The queen’s other lady, the flaxen-haired Elizabeth Tilney sat at the fringes of the queen’s entourage: far removed from Isabel’s mother, sister and the grandiose ‘proud Cis’. The room division’s resembled battle lines and that did not elude Isabel. She let out a dry cough, which she attempted to stifle behind her emerald sleeve in vain.

‘Milady Isabel’ started the queen causing her to arch an eyebrow at the masked daggers that lay beneath Elizabeth’s modulated voice. ‘You seem weary child, The way you danced at the St George’s day festivities! - oh - it is no surprise that your body may not have recovered’

Oh but how I danced. Isabel could remember that night still: the jolly minstrels, the helmeted cockentric clad in the blue and murrey livery of the house of York astride the pig and George’s invariably bright smile when portraying St George in the pageantries with a makeshift lead crown on his head.

Isabel felt a blush threaten to surface on her cheeks. Feeling the sudden wish to abscond to her chambers and immerse herself in her romances and think on George, graciously excused herself.

As she made for the end of the solar she caught sight of her mother’s drawn faded face. Rumours of her father’s clandestine affinity for Lancaster have seen a wane in his power at court. The future would scatter Isabel and Anne onto either side of this war depending on who they marry, but their mother’s rise and fall ran with her husband’s, for whom she now had only miscarriages to contribute. From the door Isabel once more dipped her head slightly as a special gesture meant only for her mother to which she responded with unmoving eyes.

Isabel’s moods now also greyed such that she forgot all about George and the pagentries and she felt the disquiet for her family’s fortunes grasp around her throat. Nevertheless, she counted herself fortunate to be free from the queen’s presence. That woman’s beguiling black eyes had done more damage to the House of Neville, then she could have ever herself known nor contemplated. That serpent. For all her foreigness to courtly power, it is for certes she who stands betwixt George and I.

Isabel took to hating her as organically as a fish to water. Little Anne however remained in awe of her loveliness and would often try to emulate her gestures and walk, probably believing that on account of similar colouring, someone would mistake her for the Queen. I was not as impressionable and naïve when I was her age, was I?

She made for the open hallway leading her to the wing where her provisional bedchamber was situated. The short trimmed grass enclosed within square shapes was a far cry from the phantasmagoria of the windswept scenes at Middleham or even Warwick castle. The Earl had always allowed the vines to grow onto the battlements and towers like in an Arthurian legend, their terre verte arms asserting their dominance over the grey stone like a snake would its prey.

‘Nostalgic, darling?’ Asked a young voice

Isabel spun around so quickly that the emerald of her skirts and the crimson of the long silk of her henin whirled around her thin frame as if in protection.

‘George! You half-frightened me!’ gasped Isabel

‘Are you indeed so surprised to find someone about court before vespers?’ he replied sardonically

‘No... no’ said Isabel regaining her composition ‘I was merely lost in thought’

‘On what may I ask?’

‘Thoughts too many to count on both hands’ she said feeling a sense of unwarranted nervousness creep into her voice, ‘mainly on when we are to marry. It has been many years past and I feel that if father cannot procure this, it only comes to show the King loves him no longer’

‘Oh how impatient you are!’ he chuckled

‘At ten and eight, how could I not be? Have you any notion of how it feels to know of all those since girlhood married and with children of their own?’ All those far plainer and less landed than I.

George gave her a look which no matter how endearing it may have appeared to him struck her as condescending.

‘Come here my haughty Isabel’ he said playfully gesturing to the stone bench behind them ‘Edward knows that I mean to have you and I will have it no other way. I have made my intentions clearer than a spring pond’

Though still appearing unappeased in the strain of her eyebrows, Isabel’s felt her body naturally turn towards his while she obeyed and sat. ‘It is that Rivers woman is it not? Casting her net over-‘

George placed his hand, on the small of her back bringing her closer, which they both knew was the most ardent gesture he could offer without making his cousinly preference for her visible. Little good it did them as the other half of the court that did not whisper of the Earl’s Lancastrian sympathies, rightly believed them secretly promised in a dangerous alliance. ‘Come now, as much as I am wrought to ever defend her or her kin, I must say that your father’s enmity over her has made you also overestimate her’

‘Do you truly believe my judgment to be wrong?’ demanded Isabel inquisitively ‘I have seen her over the past months. The Duchess of Bedford must have imparted to her all her craft’.

‘He has loathed her since that affair with Sir Hugh and how she spurned him thinking herself above in rank to his retainer. Who though a knight of Jerusalem, had not the courage to even ask for her hand himself. It was first father who had written to her and then yours.’

‘I thought it was because the Queen's father, then a mere knight, dared to summon father to Rochester believing him guilty of piracy and then having the nerve in refusing to relinquish his command of Calais, until the troops had been paid their - in arrears - dues.’

‘Oh but how much you do know!’

‘Father tells me all of this.’ smiled Isabel ‘I am his heiress after all.’ The future Countess of Warwick... like mother I shall be. How god wanted me to be powerful that he had me placed into a line where titles to pass to women like they do to men.

‘I see then. Would my lady care for a stroll around the herber garden?’ Asked George offering his hand, no doubt wanting to draw her somewhere more remote where he can freely confide.

Isabel knew she was expected to be in her room but begrudgingly accepted the offer nonetheless... She clung onto his peach satined arm as if he were leading her into a banquet. Feeling the slipperiness of the sumptuous material with each readjustment of her fingers. She started fearing that her nails would leave cuts into the material.

They dallied about the quadrangles pretending to be attentive to the spicy mix of violet hyssop and gentle-hued sage. Both their minds were elsewhere. They claimed their seats but this time on a bench so much smaller than the last, that George found himself blanketed by the thick skirts of Isabel’s Burgundian gown.

Isabel plucked a part of the Betony behind them. Its fuschia so bright it seemed to her that it did not belong in the same world as the fortress of Westminster with its sad colours and hoare-white walls whose winter spirit seemed to melt with each striking of the sun. ‘There George, I have just the plant for your humours’.

‘You believe me to have violent blood, you contemptuous girl?’ he said amicably responding to her coyness.

‘There never was a day I doubted it. Tempestuous, you were always’ she said softly with a twinge of longing for their schooldays

‘Then you ought to be my calming force. But now that I see how testy you be, I am beginning to question my belief!’ he teased holding a sage up to her eyes and finding it comparatively lacking in colour.

Isabel’s eyes peered at his back in amazement - at how they appeared to be constantly shifting in between honey and hazel. I may have the sea’s green in mine, but he has all its capriciousness. Oh how I mean to be married to him. Queen or mere Duchess, it matters not now. How noble he looks with his new black velvet cap - though a crown would suit better. She thought back to the tableaux of him as St George at the banquet. The delay in marriage had given her ample opportunity to grow accustomed to her role in George’s ambitions and for the past year she found she too yearned for their outcome. In being schooled in Latin and matters constitutional and equitable, she found a welcome addition to her otherwise stale instruction in religion and manors.

‘Now sweetling, tell me of your father’s plans. What was that business with Wenlock in Calais?’ prodded George

‘That I was not privy to’ answered Isabel quietly ‘But perhaps it is time you told me of what you and father mean to do with that Robin fellow. His name was circulating around Middleham before we left a fortnight ago.’

‘A mere decoy, my love. It is John Conyers, a kinsman of yours by marriage’ replied George ‘Would you keep a secret?’

It just now dawned on her how easily George is like to surrender information just to prove himself the more informed. Isabel nodded quickly, ‘Oh yes! Jesus wept, I thought I would go mad trying to wade through your and father’s spider mesh ‘till I could decipher your strategy!’

‘Well, We have borrowed some money from the city to raise men and we will march north to Edgecote’ whispered George jubilantly ‘with troops raining down on him from Yorkshire and us from the south. Edward will be entrapped like a lamb in its pen. With that simpleton Robin of Holderness dealt with, Edward would immediately assume that our Robin of Redesdale be of Lancaster as well’ George’s already large eyes clearly brightened at the prospect of schooling the kingmaker’s daughter in strategy. With a voice that bordered on too loud he continued, ‘-and deal with him himself thinking Captain Margaret begins this plot. Did you know he always secretly feared her’

Isabel nodded slowly in comprehension. ‘If you have taken to drawing arms against your brother, then pray tell: how may we secure permission to wed?’

‘Why we need only god for that, do we not? And that we have for the dispensation has been given by his Holiness’ announced George smuggly to a hushing Isabel who was now nervously peering around for any sign of life that would betray this conversation to her newfound enemies. Reassurance and bliss showed on her face when he added, ‘and we shall finally be married, in a couple months time but in Calais. And no one, not even Edward can move against it’

New dissensions brewed and strangely in a room which populated with the tight-lipped smiles of the barons’ wives, and the handsomest King and Queen that England had ever seen, seemed dyspathetic to such.

After being privy to what she believed to be the full extent of her formidable father and George’s plan, she felt an unfathomable anxiousness follow her with every step she took at court. She may have felt so uneasy, that even her raven hair felt heavy and tangling under the protection of the confining heart-shaped henin, but she was resolved to prove herself a true lady of good virtue.

I am kingmaker’s daughter and need to also mask my knowledge of treason, in every empty smile and curtesy, however dishonest that act may be, she thought to herself, while approaching the dias. The naïve Felice was now once more at war with the heiress of four great houses.

In the same azure gown she wore before vespers, Elizabeth the Queen minced onto the dias in a manner whose imperiousity, Isabel conceded, was greatly aggravated by her own dislike. Therefore, she was half-surprised to see it was indeed the king, who with a booming proclamation declared court reopened.

‘Ah- if only it had been you there beside the king. A more apt mediator to soothe our differences could never have existed’ cautiously joked her father, one step behind her. You mean to say I would have better filled the throne that you built.

‘Oh but father, surely you could not fault me for that, I was not yet ten and still with the nurses, when you - he was crowned’ said Isabel

‘The fault would be of none but mine. It did not occur to me until the last of your dear mother’s miscarriages that I would have no son. Had I realised how god feared the coming into this world of a son born of people as we are, insatiable and limitless, who would soon make half of our native land but the manor of one man, I would have made certain that if the blood of our lines must pass into new houses, it would have been that of royal. Nine years past he would have denied me nothing.’

The Earl’s tone was tender, causing a smile that revealed some of the lines and folds of one on the brink of advanced age. The way the rich red folds of his overgrown fell, however, revealed the body of a younger man still lean and strong. He amiably caressed the arm of his favourite daughter, the warmth of his hand cooled by the pale jewels resting on each finger. To all around them it would appear as if a plot were being hatched between the Neville clan, such smiles were commonplace for Isabel and foreign to all else. It was particularly that which made Isabel reciprocate.

‘But father, what of George?’ She queried with amusement still in her voice ‘I could not be more pleased with such an arrangement, not even if it were with the King himself’.

She spared him a glance. He who towered above all men unrepentant, shared the same kingly beauty as George: a small rosebud mouth, retrousse nose and high forehead. However, where George’s hair hung in châtain curls streaked with gold and some copper, Edward’s hair was straight, dark and fashioned under a velvet cap like she so often saw sported by his emulative brother of Gloucester. Where George’s eyes were large, round and revealed much, his were were her father’s Neville brown cunning eyes, sharp, alert and intelligent.

Edward of York’s large frame, voice and person did nothing to diminish the impossible elegance of his every movement and friendly countenance. In spite of Isabel’s penchant for prettiness in men that naturally exalted George in her eyes, she could see that Edward was rightfully considered the handsomest and born to be king, and begrudgingly Isabel accepted that, on looks alone, Elizabeth seemed to as well.

‘Yes, Clarence has all the superficial signifiers of his house: gallantry, bravery and chilvalry. I believe him to be a protector of the old ways and what is true and good. I also think him more inclined to listen to counsel than his brothers. But, dear daughter, you mistake me for your uncle of Montagu. It is he who is a soldier and I, a diplomat, have little interest in bloodshed and moreseo where it concerns one who I once thought of as a brother’ her father added sadly ‘Alas, you, Clarence and I are Nevilles and we do not shirk from our obligations to England’

‘I mean to say, I do not dutifully come to the Clarence as a wife’, she plead redressing her indescrete use of his Christian name. A habit that she should resign in the annals of her childhood, when becoming Queen ‘It is no resignation for me. Truly father if you’d know how lonely I felt after sister Margaret left to marry that knight, with naught but mother and books to keep me company... But whenever at court, Clarence provides me with a companionship I am so joyous and gracious of, that I feel loved by him as I merit. He is comely, charming, witty and oh so very learned’. To her chagrin Isabel noticed herself nervously fiddling with the rings upon her pale dainty fingers. When shall the day come where I no longer have to switch in between fingers George’s emerald ring? I so yearn to proudly present it to all.

‘A curse on that learning I say’ muttered the Earl ‘his love for poesies has yielded upon us a man full of scruples, fears and doubts. I daresay the only flaws he shares with his brother of Gloucester. But where Gloucester with the cold craft strange for one so young harnesses them into a shield, Clarence lets himself be swepped up in the chaos of his own wary premonitions and acts rashly.’ The Earl’s ominous speech was interrupted by the slight chuckle he had to himself, bringing his fingers up to his temple as if in a headache, he continued in a light incredulous tone that confused even Isabel in its interspersion of fatherly affection and judgment, ‘My, had you been there to witness how he demanded for your hand in marriage - he strode into the privy council and made his request in a manner so defiant, it was as if the king had already refused him before!’

Read the rest of the chapter and all those before it here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/22268239/chapters/55672000

[abitterlifethroughcinema]

The Five (+1) Movies To Catch For the New Year

WOKE! 2020 Film Awards PReviews  

by Lucas Avram Cavazos

It is a mighty and yet daunting task this ‘2020 thing’ that is upon us. I think inherently we all know that some things are going to shift, others will change, some will expand and a lot more are likely to im/explode. Despite the factuality of it all, one constant I will always turn to, and recommend to you my lovelies, is cinematherapy. It goes without saying that some upcoming movies, which are either now or soon to be at our local VOS movie theatres, are also about to sweep some awards and with Oscar nominations going live this second week of January, I believe the movies below will soon be water cooler twawk, so me here at A Bitter Life brings you a BCN in VOSE look at the five (PLUS ONE!) films to catch before awards season intensifies.

In fact, it was a rather decent year for some great fare and not such a hodgepodge of Marvel and Disney movies forced down our throats every other week. The film I must start off with on this 2020 Film Awards Preview would be the excellent South Korean film Parasite ####-1/2, unanimously chosen as the winner of this year’s Palme d’ Or at Cannes and easily gracing the top or near-top of most film critic’s lists this year, as well it should. Telling the story of a South Korean family, the Kims, who slowly become interlopers within the confines of the uber-wealthy Park family. Starting off with one of them acting as a tutor, they slowly find a way to fill a need for the Park family, all while acting as non-related good Samaritans…that is until a botched getaway vacation and an underground bunker with a tale to tell reveal themselves and send the two families into a quagmire that must be seen and lived to be believed. (Now playing all over BCN/CAT/ESP)

Next up would be my personal favourite this year, though very closely followed by the aforementioned film! Once Upon a Time in Hollywood ####-1/2 became, at least for myself, a redeeming factor in the oeuvre of Quentin Tarantino after the meh! feelings given off by his last big screen outing a couple of years ago. Taking the tragic, real-life story of the Manson Murders that ended the life of Roman Polanski’s then-wife Sharon Tate, director Tarantino buckles his audience into their seats and sends them into a time zone tunnel to 1969 Los Angeles. One of the things that has always revolved around a Tarantino movie is the element of revenge. Here, we have a different take on a true event, but the concept is widened by the director using actors Brad Pitt, Leonardo di Caprio and even Margot Robbie as conduits of a bygone era that give a peek into a mindset and time that usually must be lived to be remembered. The fact that we, the viewing audience, feel like we were actually there in ’69 and then also given the chance to make up our own mind as to a possible different ending to the Manson family murders is mere evidence of a great director/writer who seamlessly gives us a choose-your-own-adventure saga with superb cameos. Excellent cinema once again. (Soon on DVD/Blu-ray & VOD)

The next big film that has increased the star power and respectability factor of Happy Gilmore, uh I mean, Adam Sandler is the ever-loved and heralded film Uncut Gems ####.  If we have to put some truth to power, it must be noted that part of the film’s appeal is that it is such a New York City film. When you then throw in the elements of a thriller mixed with the Diamond District of Manhattan AND a run-around plot that also includes ballers and entertainers like Kevin Garnett and The Weeknd playing themselves, what you get is a peek into  what feels like a true-life crime show playing out in front of your eyes. Add in the ever-excellent Tilda Swinton and Natasha Lyonne, as well, and even despite the long 2-1/4 hour running time, what you get is Adam Sandler, under the direction of the Safdie brothers and along with the good graces of Netflix (who will also be distributing the film in Europe), becoming the new Comeback Kid. (To be released in BCN/CAT/ESP via Netflix on Jan.31)

While we’re on the subject…Netflix. Whatever your thoughts may be on the streaming site service (and others like it), it goes without saying that VOD services have become the wave of the future. Home cinema and entertainment centres/systems are what make for the latest in silver screen viewing. For the last three-plus years, the world cinema system (not to mention film academies and award outlets) have had to adapt to a new reality few probably ever even thought of before this new digital age. Just a few days ago, perhaps showing a bit of wane after receiving the most nominations, only two actress winners took home trophies, Olivia Colman as The Queen in The Crown and Laura Dern for A Marriage Story, reviewed below. With that said, famed director/ writer/ producer Marty Scorcese decided to go the Netflix route for his (likely) last mafia opus The Irishman ####, detailing the life story and inner workings of the Philly mob, while also detailing intricacies of the Teamster unions, Jimmy Hoffa, the Kennedys and the inner workings of the US mafia and its many minions. Financed by Mexican firm Fabrica de Cine (mad side-eye and furrowed brow) amongst Netflix and other studios for international rights, the production of the film apparently ballooned up to (and some reports even say, well beyond) $160 million. With just under 8€ million reaped at the worldwide box office (taquilla) coffers, it’s fair to say that this film in all its glory should have been edited to a slightly shorter length and intended for movie theatres. It has had a fairly great response by viewers on the streaming site du jour, but even Sandra Bullock garnered hella more viewers with her formulaic thriller Bird Box earlier in the year. As a student and tutor of history, the elements of the film that stood out to me went beyond the impeccable performances, specifically by Pacino as Jimmy Hoffa, but of course De Niro and Pesci as Frank Sheeran and Russell Bufalino, as well, but it was Scorcese’s capturing of that forgotten time around which we find so many Trump supporters harkening to, and it details the trials and tribulations of the working class then…and perhaps, even now. That aside, I abhorred the expensive de-ageing CGI process to make the Italian acting kings look younger…just vile. It was like they suddenly became animated secondary characters from a dropped scene in Spielberg’s Tin Tin film a few years ago…bloody odd for a live-action mafioso epic. Still…Scorcese is the only working director who can capture that essence of a time gone by and dress it in Hollywood’s finest if overly-priced storytelling. Which brings us to the other Netflix gem to catch…but only when emotionally prepared.  (Now streaming on Netflix and select screens)

Marriage Story ####, a.k.a. that likely Oscar-nominated film that will require too many tissue moments, also makes its way to this list. Trust, I can get my heart strings pulled quite easily if the right sentiments abound, so I was non-plussed going into this because I had already heard from my film fest peops that it was a bit of a tearjerker. Undeniably, there is a brutally-displayed realness that envelops the main characters of this film, particularly actresses Scarlett Johansson and Laura Dern. Helmed by the wonderful Noah Baumbach, Johansson gives a near-best performance as former teen actress turned TV actress Nicole Barber, who separates from her NYC theatre-directing husband played by Kylo Ren himself, Adam Driver. When she takes a role and moves to LA, along with their child, things become even more real. There is a gutsy bravado that clearly makes itself beyond relevant, as the melancholy yet funny film continues, and I, for one, could hardly keep the sobs at bay with the ending of the film. This is the stuff that ‘rom-drams’ need last their heart, not that paltry shite fed to too many simpletons by Nicholas Sparks. (Now streaming on Netflix and select screens)

Aaaaaaaaand…lastly, Knives Out ####-1/2 rightly fixes itself into a final slot on this list because it is one of those long-lost wonders of vintage cinema…a star-studded quasi-whodunnit with wit and thrills and superb, serio-comedic acting by everyone involved. A mere smattering of those actors would be Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, Spanish actress and Golden Globe nominee Ana de Armas, Michael Shannon, Toni Collette and even Don friggin’ Johnson! Following an investigation into the sudden death of famed mystery writer Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer), who had just invited main members of his family to his mansion for his birthday celebration, we see the touches of a perfectly poised ensemble film. Director/writer Rian Johnson has really stepped up to the plate with the best of the new directors and fresh off his box-office behemoth Star Wars: The Last Jedi from a couple of years back, his helming a film like Knives Out really plays his hand heavily in his diversity and directing tenacity. The fact that he also wrote this fine piece of script and dialogue makes him even more worthy of a possible director nod and it goes without saying that the cast is undoubtedly the finest ensemble piece made and released in the last year, and if you’ve been seeking a classic feel of a film with a smart, sharp modern twist, this film will satiate any of those olskie-olskie longings of a nostalgic murder mystery that makes you feel good after you leave the cinema. (Now playing in BCN/CAT/ESP)

[georgeavillart]

Making Histories

Bernard Buffet

Buffet’s portraits have always been hugely prevalent in my discipline; his signature exaggerated dark eyebrows and eyelashes are consistently translated into my paintings, lino prints and photography. The solemn aura consistent in each of his paintings is something that also always resonated with my own work which is often based around mental illness and a sense of confusion or lack of ownership of self. Buffet is undoubtably the first painter that I ever really connected with and the undeniable impact his work has had on my own will likely always remain.

Suzanne Césaire

In addition to her important literary essays, her role as editor of Tropiques can be regarded as an equally significant (if often overlooked) contribution to Caribbean literature. Tropiques was the most influential francophone Caribbean journal of its time and is widely acknowledged for the foundational role it played in the development of Martiniquan literature. Césaire played both an intellectual and administrative role in the journal’s success, the journal established a dialogue with surrealism both as a means of cultural liberation and as a means to obscure political messages for the censors. In her contributions, Suzanne Césaire heavily reappropriated colonial stereotypes such as the ‘cannibal’ and the ‘lazy negro’ as provocations for both coloniser and colonised to re-examine deeply internalised (self)perceptions.

Leonor Fini

Alike Césaire, Fini has been frequently forgotten in mainstream education despite her large contribution associated with the Surrealist movement. Fini’s self-portraits and mythological paintings focused on eroticism and dreams; “Paintings, like dreams, have a life of their own and I have always painted very much the way I dream,” she once said. Fini’s eccentric lifestyle of cross dressing, carrying on homosexual relationships, and eating dinner with her 23 cats, continued throughout the decades. She notably designed the costumes for Federico Fellini’s film 8 ½ in 1963, and was the subject of many photographs and poems during her lifetime.

Der Blaue Reiter

Der Blaue Reiter was a German expressionist group originating in Munich in 1909. A number of avant-garde artists living in Munich had founded the ‘Neue Kunstler Vereiningung’, or New Artist Association. The most important of these were Wassily Kandinsky Franz Marc. In 1911 Kandinsky and Marc broke with the rest of the Neue Kunstler Vereiningung and in December that year held in Munich the first exhibition of Der Blaue Reiter. This particular painting by Kandinsky relates to my work through the use of colour, to him, copying from nature stifled artistic expression. Kandinsky's thoughts on colour were similar to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's belief that different colours can convey certain emotions. The warm colours - red, yellow, and orange - are usually considered lively colours that can sometimes be harsh. The cool colours - green, blue, and purple - are considered more peaceful and subdued. Kandinsky was especially fond of blue. In my paintings the ‘subdued’ and ‘harsh’ connotations of colour are parallel to each other, suggesting a conflict in technique where Kandinsky’s piece’s between 1914-1921 embody the large scale turmoil as Germany declared war on Russia.

Sigmar polke 

The painting “Modern Art”, an angst-stripped remake of Ab-Ex, both amuses and unsettles. In terms of style it includes every standard ingredient of abstract painting — vigorous gestures, contemplated shapes, a splash of deep texture, a spiralled flourish — but absent of all the conceptual substance of any self-respecting abstraction. Though aesthetically pleasing in style, it could be argued that the artist hardly needed to have added the white margin and caption at the bottom; it’s already pure textbook material. The same critiquing could become apparent in my own work, have I been subtle enough in my comparisons and challengings? The concept of challenging contemporary techniques are common themes in our work and influenced some of my preconceived ‘abstract mark making’. However, with its nod to 20th century abstraction seeming at once nostalgic and sarcastic, the influence of the Nazi reign where all forms of abstraction were deemed degenerate could be being commentated on. This puts my work in a very different, much lighter angle.

Georges Seurat

Georges Seurat is prominently remembered as the pioneer of the Neo-Impressionist technique commonly known as Divisionism, or Pointillism, an approach associated with a softly flickering surface of small dots or strokes of colour. Seurat combined a traditional approach, based on his academic training, with a study of modern techniques, such as Impressionism. His work also derived from contemporary ideas of quasi-scientific theories about colour and expression. Seurat was inspired by a desire to abandon Impressionism's preoccupation with the fleeting moment, and instead to render what he regarded as the essential and unchanging in life. Nevertheless, he borrowed many of his approaches from Impressionism, from his love of modern subject matter and scenes of urban leisure, to his desire to avoid depicting only the apparent colour of depicted objects and instead to try to capture all the colours that interacted to produce their appearance.

Patrick Caulfield

Patrick Caulfield was an English painter and printmaker associated with the Pop Art movement, known for bold images created in a strikingly graphic style. Employing references to Photorealism, his paintings are characterized by their flat planes of colour and cartoonish black outlines, creating an uncomfortable ambiguity between the real and the illusionary. At the Tate I was predominantly drawn to Patrick Caulfield’s work; his paintings explore alternative ways of picturing the world. ‘After Lunch’ was one of his earliest works to combine different styles of representation. In this case, what appears to be a photomural of the ‘Château de Chillon’ hanging in a restaurant is depicted with high-focus realism, contrasting with the cartoon-like black-outlined imagery and fields of saturated colour of its surroundings. Caulfield deliberately makes the relationship between these varying representational methods uneasy and ambiguous, so that the picture appears more real than the everyday world around it.

Harris Glenn Milstead

Milstead "the most beautiful woman in the world, almost" is better known by his stage name ‘Divine’ and is an icon amongst the LGBT community, Divine has always been a prevalent influence in my life as a gay woman but is currently influencing my artwork more than ever. Divine, was an American actor, singer, and drag queen closely associated with the independent filmmaker John Waters usually performed female roles in cinematic and theatrical productions, and adopted a female drag persona for his music career. The characters Divine portrayed present femininity in a way that’s powerful and vulgar in contrast to the frequent connotations of sex with absolutely no depth of character. This possessive vulgarity being the centre piece of artwork is what my photomontage pieces are heavily focussed on.

Erich Heckel

Erich Heckel was a German artist and founding member of the influential German Expressionist group Die Brücke. His angular woodcuts and paintings described both the chromatic world and the inner emotions of the artist. In Die Brücke’s studies toward a modern, expressionistic art, the group regularly sketched, painted, and printed images of two young neighborhood girls they used as models, one of whom, "Franzi," Erich Heckel depicts here. The artists' desire for freedom of expression was mirrored in the free movement and relative lack of inhibition of their young muses. In Heckel's woodcut Seated Nude (Fränzi), Franzi's pose and slight grin indicate a lack of shame about her nakedness, while her small, immature body provides a visual analog for the artist's angularity and simplification of form. Rendered in stark, unmodulated white, her nudity contrasts with the red and green background tones. Not only has Heckel’s simplified technique inspired my own mark making when regarding lino prints, the representation of women in his work provided an alternate depiction that intrigued me with its candid nature.

Robert Mapplethorpe

Mapplethorpe is one of the many brilliant creative minds that were lost in the 80’s due to complication with Aids, the American photographer’s work altered perceptions and pushed boundaries in relation to the male gaze upon the male body. Charting his personal involvement in New York’s gay scene, Robert Mapplethorpe’s photographs demonstrated a compelling perspective on the underground queer culture of the 1970s and 1980s. Mapplethorpe speculated that if he had been born in an earlier era, he might have been a sculptor rather than a photographer. In his chosen medium, he underscored the powerful physical presence of his models. With an obsessive attention to detail, he choreographed their statuesque poses and used studio lights to trace the contours of their bodies. His subjects are shot through with dramatic tension and eroticism no matter how benign the scene. A body is never just a body; even so, the classical sensibility that structures these scenes is tempered by a palpable sexual intensity and with the same attention to detail as his most seemingly tame images of tulips. Mapplethorpe is important to me as an LGBT icon but also as a large influencer over my desire to depict vulgarity in droll domestic scenes, the sense of ownership of self is so prevalent in his images serving a subtle commentary on the lack of control these figures really had; a message I want to remind viewers of.

[mfmagazine]

Purple Melon

Article by Jamie Poster

Photo by Mackel Vaughn

One day in a British college, songwriter Tom Hill approached Eric Joyce, "You're a bassist? Want to start a band?”  Though the two had never met before that fateful day, they are the only two consistent band members since Purple Melon’s inception.  After working with a few different guitarists and breaking up with the keyboard altogether (though with the "Korg Triton" logo reworked into "Orgy Hard-on," the keyboard still sits in the hall with the rest of their gear), the band finally settled with Owen Barry on guitar and Jason Ganberg on drums. Purple Melon is now a rock quartet living under one roof in Los Angeles.   Their classic sound might seem nostalgic, but when asked if they’re trying to recreate a former era of rock, Hill will tell you, “We play what we enjoy to play and strive to keep the musicianship and the quality at the highest possible level.”   What's your name in reference to? Owen: Excess scrotal tissue carried by our exotic bass player...he really needs another couple of eggs in there to fill it out by all accounts...or golf balls. Eric: The other guys think it’s funny to compare it to my large genitals. Frankly, I think that story is getting old and there's not one ounce of truth to it. The true story is that we needed a name and Tom chose it hastily and without me. To be honest, I think it’s a crap name. We're stuck with it now.  Thanks Tom! Then again, it’s the music that makes the band not the name. It’s just a name! Are you all living in one house together right now? Jason: Yes we all live together, eat together; we are brothers from other mothers! Eric: Yes. It drives me mad. Especially when Tom and Owen decide to fire up their stupidly loud guitar rigs in the hallway to test out their new guitar pedals and amps when you're trying to chill out and answer interview questions for mf magazine. Can you explain the video series? Jason: We have been filmed since the band started, now it’s turning into our own show, which we are currently filming the pilot episode for. It’s good fun, British invasion number 2!! What's the weirdest thing you've caught on tape? Owen: We've caught all sorts of weird stuff...woman attacking us, angry crowds, various clips of nudity, practical jokes...But you'll have to wait to see the show for the really weird stuff. Jason: That’s a hard one! Probably Eric getting his testicles out on live radio in the UK! Eric: We had a photo-shoot once on rooftop in Birmingham, England with 30 naked women, to recreate the classic Jimi Hendrix "Electric Ladyland" album cover.  It was all going well until one of the women started chasing us around and biting us. Tom was bitten so badly that he got bruises on his arm. In the midst of all this, the police turned up as there had been complaints from neighbors. Was a strange day. All on tape too. Who are your influences? Owen:   Individually we are influenced by a huge variety of people...ABBA to Whitesnake, to Miles Davis to The Beatles. We have a few collective influences, some things we do all agree on. Bands such as The Faces, Queen, ACDC, Wings, The Who, Lynyrd Skynyrd and many more. It’s mainly the influences we disagree on that make Purple Melon have its own sound What's your songwriting process like? Tom: So long as I write one good song every 3-4 weeks I’m happy. I've never understood artists that go on about writing over 300 songs, at what point did they realize that only a handful were any good? Jason: Tom and Owen have written our songs between them so far but Eric and I are starting to write some stuff together now so we'll see if we can come up with anything any good. Why do you think you're cultivating a more classic sound while a lot of bands are trying to uncover something new? Tom: We aren't cultivating a classic sound at all; we are just trying to make the music sound real. The problem nowadays is that the vast majority of music is processed in such a way to make it sound ‘modern’; it loses all its authenticity and often sounds sterile and too perfect. It just happens that back in the sixties and seventies these tools weren't available and so all the imperfections are left and a guitar still sounds like a guitar. As for uncovering something new, I think a lot of bands get far too caught up in trying to uncover something 'new' that they forget the most important thing is, and always will be, the songs. A good song will always be a good song no matter what the genre, style or band. We play what we enjoy to play and strive to keep the musicianship and the quality at the highest possible level.....which in itself is new for the current generation. Eric, why were you expelled from college? Eric: I'd like to point out that I was "asked to leave" and not expelled, so it’s not on record. I suppose it is now…thanks a lot! It wasn't any event in particular. I was "asked to leave" because of my absolute refusal to do what I was told. I was a bit of a brat back in school and did everything I could to go against the grain.  Silly, I know. Nevertheless, I still graduated with straight A’s. How does the small venue scene in LA compare to London? Tom: There is a distinct lack of dressing rooms in LA! Waiting with your gear in the street is fairly common. At least it never rains. Luckily, Eric isn't 21 yet so usually he sits outside on his own with the gear while we have a drink at bar. Owen: The post gig late night kebab has been replaced by the good old cheeseburger... no complaints there though. You guys definitely do burgers right. Eric: Walking into a small London venue, you would most likely expect girl singer/guy guitarist combos, and bands wearing skinny jeans, tweed jackets and farmer hats banging on single toms. We don't belong to that. We love high energy rock and roll that makes you feel good! I got quite bored with melancholy teens on stage singing about their love life problems. That’s not what you want on a night out, is it?! You want to be uplifted and energized.  That's the vibe we try to transmit, and I think we do it well.